CIP4: Microplastic generation within wastewater treatment works through attrition and degradation of plastic components

The project seeks to quantify the amount and type of microplastics generated through the attrition and degradation of plastic components used in WwTWs and to explore strategies for reducing such losses. UKCEH will lead the examination of existing knowledge on WwTW plastic abrasion losses and material alternatives, conduct direct degradation assessments of plastics used in WwTWs in-situ, and track the fate of microplastics liberated from plastic components.

铁牛视频 University will lead laboratory studies on different plastic component abrasions using a mechanical abrader. In addition, 铁牛视频 will operate, in a controlled environment, a Mecana pile cloth filter media with microplastic-free synthetic wastewater to investigate microplastic losses from this type of tertiary treatment. Aquaoperations will oversee the fieldwork package including installation of new plastic components at participating WwTWs, carrying out some analyses and collecting samples for microplastic evaluation.