Microplastics – News and Features

In this article, we take a look at what gas chromatography is, how it works and how to interpret output data. Its combination with mass spectrometry and the use of multiple dimensions are considered, and strengths, limitations and common problems are discussed.

Researchers have shown experimentally that most nanoplastics in estuarine waters can clump, forming larger clusters that either settle or stick to solid objects, instead of floating on into the ocean.

In this interview, Jim Mellon discusses some of the challenges that companies in the cultured meat sector face, how they are responding and what could be in store for the field over the next few years.

A recent study overviews a plethora of marine litter monitoring survey data available for different regions of the world ocean, as well as modelling data, in order to answer this compelling question. But the answer might not be so straightforward.

Researchers have developed a process for the electrolytic treatment of wastewater that degrades microplastics at the source. The technology could, for example, be used at the exit of commercial laundries to prevent microplastic release into the environment.

A new report highlights the severity of endocrine-disrupting chemical contamination affecting human health.

Researchers investigated the microplastic load of four of the mussel species most frequently sold as food in supermarkets from twelve countries around the world.

New research has investigated an additive of plastic pollution which has been known to cause further contamination within the environment when left for long periods.

The environment is polluted by microplastics worldwide and researchers have now discovered that microplastic particles find their way into living cells more easily if they were exposed to natural aquatic environments, i.e. fresh water and seawater.

A ground-breaking method to label and track manufactured nano-plastics could signal a paradigm shift in how we understand and care for environments, finds a new study.