Adsorption of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons by Polyethylene Microplastics in Freshwaters

Microplastics (MPs), which are ubiquitous in the environment, have been shown to adsorb organic contaminants of concern including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Any MPs which are not removed via drinking water treatment may enter the human body via consumption and act as vectors for PAHs. In this thesis sorption trials were conducted using both artificial and real water matrices along with two different sizes (200 µm and 1090 µm) of virgin and weathered polyethylene (PE) microspheres. This experimental design allowed direct comparison of the impacts of natural waters and weathering on sorption capacity. Of the factors examined, size and surface area, and hydrophobicity, with respect to both the polymer and PAHs were identified as most critical. Overall, results of this study provide insight into the sorption behavior of microplastics in freshwater environments and their potential to adsorb organic contaminants.M.A.S