Microplastics at the ocean-atmosphere interface in Mexican coastal areas of two major oceans
1Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cd. Mx., Mexico.
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Summary
Microplastics (MP) are widespread in Mexican ports, with polyester being the most common type found in air and seawater. These findings highlight ocean-to-atmosphere MP transfer and inform coastal risk assessments.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Marine Biology
- Chemical Analysis
Background:
- Global plastic production leads to widespread microplastic (MP) contamination.
- Urban and coastal environments are significantly impacted by microplastic pollution.
- Understanding MP distribution in marine and atmospheric compartments is crucial for risk assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify and categorize microplastics (MP) in air and seawater samples from Veracruz and Manzanillo, Mexico.
- To identify polymer types and particle characteristics of MP in two major Mexican ports.
- To investigate the potential transfer of MP from ocean to atmosphere.
Main Methods:
- Micro-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (micro-FTIR) was used for polymer identification.
- Air and seawater samples were collected from Veracruz and Manzanillo.
- Microplastic and artificial non-plastic particle (ANPP) concentrations, types, and sizes were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Polyester (PES) was the most prevalent polymer, followed by acrylic polymers (ACR) and polyethylene (PE).
- Airborne MP concentrations varied by time of day and location, with higher levels in Veracruz.
- Marine MP concentrations were higher near the coast, and fibers constituted over 70% of detected MP.
Conclusions:
- Microplastic pollution is significant in Mexican ports, with fibers being the dominant form.
- Ocean-atmosphere interactions facilitate the transfer of microplastics.
- Baseline data are essential for developing management strategies for Mexican coastal regions.