White and wonderful? Microplastics prevail in snow from the Alps to the Arctic
Melanie Bergmann, Sophia Mützel, Sebastian Primpke, Mine Banu Tekman, Jürg Trachsel, Gunnar Gerdts
Abstract
) but still substantial. Polymer composition varied strongly, but varnish, rubber, polyethylene, and polyamide dominated overall. Most particles were in the smallest size range indicating large numbers of particles below the detection limit of 11 μm. Our data highlight that atmospheric transport and deposition can be notable pathways for MPs meriting more research.
Topics & Concepts
SnowMicroplasticsArcticEnvironmental sciencePhysical geographyDeposition (geology)The arcticAtmospheric sciencesPrecipitationRain and snow mixedEnvironmental chemistryOceanographyMeteorologyGeographyChemistryGeologyGeomorphologySedimentMicroplastics and Plastic PollutionRecycling and Waste Management Techniquesbiodegradable polymer synthesis and properties