UV sources and plastic composition influence microplastic surface degradation: Implications for plastic weathering studies

• Published in: Journal of hazardous materials advances Vol. 14; p. 100428
• Main Authors: Burrows, Stephen, Colwell, John, Costanzo, Sarah, Kaserzon, Sarit, Okoffo, Elvis, Ribeiro, Francisca, O'Brien, Stacey, Toapanta, Tania, Rauert, Cassandra, Thomas, Kevin V, Galloway, Tamara
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 01.05.2024
• Subjects: Microplastic; Photooxidation, weathering; Pollution; Surface roughness, carbonyl index; Surface roughness, carbonyl index; Photooxidation, weathering; Pollution; Microplastic

•UV light source, polymer type and additive content all impacted surface weathering.•Evidence suggests surface roughness may have influenced photooxidation via shading.•Carbonyl index must be used with caution when estimating duration of photooxidation.•Characterising microplastic additives is key t...