Investigating the Atmospheric Dispersion of Microplastic Particles - A Model Study

Abstract

Widespread contamination of several environmental compartments by micro and nano plastic particles has been documented globally, extending even to rural regions. The airborne transport of these particles is a recognised phenomenon; however, the intricacies of this atmospheric pathway remain poorly understood. In this study, we employ the COSMO-Itpas model system, enabling the simulation of Lagrangian transport for individual particles within the turbulent regime of the atmospheric boundary layer. This modelling technique facilitates the calculation of thousands of trajectories, providing valuable insights into the connectivity between potential sources of plastic particles such as roads, agricultural activities, and water bodies and the observation sites where particles may be detected. Our pilot study focuses on the atmospheric pathway of idealised microplastic particles in central Germany, aiming to discern potential sources and assess their significance. By utilising the COSMO-Itpas model system, we aim to better understand the atmospheric dispersion of microplastics.