A novel method for preparing microplastic fibers.

ABSTRACT: Microscopic plastic (microplastic, 0.1?µm-5?mm) is a widespread pollutant impacting upon aquatic ecosystems across the globe. Environmental sampling has revealed synthetic fibers are prevalent in seawater, sediments and biota. However, microplastic fibers are rarely used in laboratory studies as they are unavailable for purchase and existing preparation techniques have limited application. To facilitate the incorporation of environmentally relevant microplastic fibers into future studies, new methods are required. Here, a novel cryotome protocol has been developed. Nylon, polyethylene terephthalate and polypropylene fibers (10-28??m diameter) were aligned, embedded in water-soluble freezing agent, and sectioned (40-100??m length) using a cryogenic microtome. Microplastic fibers were prepared to specified lengths (P?

SUBMITTER: Cole M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5046121 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature