An advanced analytical approach to assess the long-term degradation of microplastics in the marine environment

Abstract

Determining the hazards posed by microplastics (MPs, <5 mm) requires an understanding of plastic degradation processes when exposed to environmental weathering forces. However, despite their perceived risks, limited information exists on the natural weathering progression of microplastics in marine environments. Our findings from environmentally realistic conditions reveal that long-term marine weathering resulted in significant degradation of plastic surfaces and bulk-phases, which varied by time and plastic polymer type. Plastics displayed biofouling, and an altered surface morphology, thermal stability and chemical signature. Secondary micronanoplastics (MNPs, <1 µm) were formed from weathered plastic surfaces, supported by a significant reduction in the size of PCL and PVC pellets. Using real world data, we reveal that plastic surfaces can degrade at a rate of up to 469.73 µm per year, 12 times greater than previous estimates. Our time-series data contributes valuable information towards developing plastic specific risk assessment frameworks and future plastics policy.