Combined Effects of UV Exposure Duration and Mechanical Abrasion on Microplastic Fragmentation by Polymer Type
Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology · Korea University of Science and Technology
Abstract
It is important to understand the fragmentation processes and mechanisms of plastic litter to predict microplastic production in the marine environment. In this study, accelerated weathering experiments were performed in the laboratory, with ultraviolet (UV) exposure for up to 12 months followed by mechanical abrasion (MA) with sand for 2 months. Fragmentation of low-density polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and expanded polystyrene (EPS) was evaluated under conditions that simulated a beach environment. PE and PP were minimally fragmented by MA without photooxidation by UV (8.7 ± 2.5 and 10.7 ± 0.7 particles/pellet, respectively). The rate of fragmentation by UV exposure duration increased more for PP…
Citation impact
- FWCI
- 20.88
- Percentile
- 100%
- References
- 56
Authors
6- YKYoung Kyoung SongCorresponding
Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Korea University of Science and Technology
- SHSang Hee Hong
Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Korea University of Science and Technology
- MJMi Jang
Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Korea University of Science and Technology
- GMGi Myung Han
Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology
- SJSeung‐Won Jung
Korea University of Science and Technology
Topics & keywords
- Pellet
- Polyethylene
- Polypropylene
- Abrasion (mechanical)
- Pellets
- Fragmentation (computing)
- Particle size
- Polymer
- Life below water