The Process of Microplastic Release from Personal Protective Equipment and Its Impact on the Environment

Zelin Wu

2024

Abstract

This study focuses on the significant issue of microplastic release from personal protective equipment (PPE), particularly face masks, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Microplastics, defined as synthetic particles smaller than 5 mm, have gained considerable attention due to their widespread environmental dissemination and potential impacts on ecosystems and human health. By employing a comprehensive set of detection techniques, including visual inspection, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, hyperspectral imaging, and thermal analysis, this research aims to provide a detailed understanding of the microplastic release process from PPE. The results highlight the scale of the problem and emphasize the need for urgent action to mitigate microplastic pollution. To this end, the study proposes a multifaceted approach that involves strengthened regulatory frameworks, improved PPE design that minimizes microplastic release, and increased investment in research to advance our knowledge and develop effective control strategies. This work serves to raise public awareness of the issue, enhances our comprehension of microplastic sources and transmission pathways, and lays a solid scientific foundation for environmental protection and public health initiatives aimed at preventing and controlling microplastic pollution.

Paper Citation

in Harvard Style

Wu Z. (2024). The Process of Microplastic Release from Personal Protective Equipment and Its Impact on the Environment. In Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference on Renewable Energy and Ecosystem - Volume 1: ICREE; ISBN 978-989-758-776-4, SciTePress, pages 47-51. DOI: 10.5220/0013844600004914

in Bibtex Style

@conference{icree24,
author={Zelin Wu},
title={The Process of Microplastic Release from Personal Protective Equipment and Its Impact on the Environment},
booktitle={Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference on Renewable Energy and Ecosystem - Volume 1: ICREE},
year={2024},
pages={47-51},
publisher={SciTePress},
organization={INSTICC},
doi={10.5220/0013844600004914},
isbn={978-989-758-776-4},
}

in EndNote Style

TY - CONF

JO - Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference on Renewable Energy and Ecosystem - Volume 1: ICREE
TI - The Process of Microplastic Release from Personal Protective Equipment and Its Impact on the Environment
SN - 978-989-758-776-4
AU - Wu Z.
PY - 2024
SP - 47
EP - 51
DO - 10.5220/0013844600004914
PB - SciTePress