journal article·2025-04-09Open access

Microplastics in Water Resources: Threats and Challenges

Wojciech Strojny, Renata Gruca-Rokosz, Maksymilian Cieśla

Applied Sciences· Volume 15· Issue 8

Abstract

This study is a review of current knowledge on microplastics (MPs) in aquatic environments. In addition to identifying the sources of contamination by MPs in water and the hazards of their presence, an attempt is made to systematize the terminology of polymeric microparticles according to their size and to describe other parameters characteristic of MPs, i.e., shape and color. Special focus was placed on a review of the most important methods used to extract MPs from environmental matrices, as well as the latest and most effective analytical methods, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages. The value of the paper is in pointing out important developments in MPs analytics, identifying existing inaccuracies and limitations in the field and providing practical guidance. Thanks to its comprehensive approach, this article is a valuable resource for researchers concerned with the problem of environmental MPs pollution.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline

Research context

OpenAlex topics: Microplastics and Plastic Pollution · Recycling and Waste Management Techniques · Graphene and Nanomaterials Applications

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

Department of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Architecture, Rzeszów University of Technology, 35-959 Rzeszow, Poland

Funding

Minister of Science and Higher Education, Republic of Poland

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