Microplastics and nanoplastics contamination in raw and treated water

Abstract

Of recent concern is the degradation of plastics from macro- to micro- and even nanosized. This study investigates the content of microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) particles in raw water sources for the local population and in tap and drinking water as treated water. A total of 189 samples were selected and analysed for the quality and quantity of microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs). The results found MNPs in all water samples, with an average abundance ranging from 204 ± 54 to 336 ± 87 particles/L in raw water, from 22 ± 7 to 33 ± 12 particles/L in tap water, and from 25 ± 15 to 73 ± 30 particles/L in drinking water. MNPs were divided into three categories according to their shape. Fragments and fibres clearly dominated in all samples. The majority of particles with sizes greater than 125 μm are found in raw water, while those with ranging sizes from 20 nm to 125 μm are mostly found in treated water. The MNPs were domains of fibres and fragments. The majority of the MNPs were composed of polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, and polyethylene (PE). This study contributes to filling the knowledge gap in the field of emerging MNPs pollution of raw and treated water, which is of concern due to the potential human exposure to MNPs. HIGHLIGHTS MNPs counts might be related to water source, processing and production, packaging, and transport.; MNPs concentrations were detected in the treated water, especially for particles smaller than 20 nm in size.; The smallest MNPs were least removed at the treatment plants.;

Keywords

• contamination
• drinking water
• microplastics
• nanoplastics
• raw water
• tap water