Microplastics – News and Features

Non-targeted analysis (NTA) is an emerging field of analytical science that aims to identify all chemicals around us. According to a meta-analysis of NTA results published over the past six years, it is estimated that less than 2% of all chemicals have been identified.

For the first time, researchers have genetically modified common silkworms to produce full-length spider silk proteins. Such proteins can be used to produce fibers that are six times tougher than the Kevlar fiber used in bulletproof vests.

Researchers have genetically engineered a marine microorganism to break down plastic in salt water. Specifically, the modified organism can break down polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a plastic used in everything from water bottles to clothing.

A new study has identified what may be a novel biological approach for removing extremely small and potentially dangerous plastic particles from water.

A new study showed that in stormwater runoff during rain approximately 19 out of every 20 microplastics collected were tyre wear particles with anywhere from 2 to 59 particles per litre of water.

According to murine research, microplastic exposure induced both behavioral changes and alterations in immune markers in liver and brain tissues. The exposed mice also began exhibiting behaviors akin to dementia in humans.

Researchers show that a paper cup that ends up in nature can also cause damage as they also contain toxic chemicals.

According to researchers, micro- and nanoplastics in agricultural soil could contribute to antibiotic resistant bacteria with a ready route into our food supply.

Glitter from makeup, greetings cards and clothing gets everywhere – including our waterways, where it can hinder the growth of key organisms in the ecosystem.

Raman spectroscopy technology, with its non- -contact, non-destructive, and chemical-specific characteristics, has been widely applied in the field of microplastics detection.