Researchers in Xi’an, China, have observed a notable increase in the quantities of microplastics found in the air. Their study revealed that these particles tripled during the period of the research. The researchers measured these particles as part of “PM2.5” pollutants, which are fine particles that can penetrate deeply into the lungs, by comparing samples collected before and after the “COVID-19” pandemic.
“Microplastic levels”
This study was led by Fubang Liu from “Xi’an Jiaotong University,” and his work focuses on studying aerosols, that is, particles suspended in the air such as dust, smoke and vehicle emissions, and their effect on the respiratory system.
His team analyzed air filters collected during the summer and winter seasons to determine whether the pandemic had affected seasonal patterns or raised microplastic levels in general.
During the “COVID-19” pandemic, disposable masks became an integral part of daily life, and ended up as waste in large quantities.
Laboratory studies have shown that used masks release fine plastic fibers, especially from the transparent polypropylene material. But masks are not the only source; clothes made of synthetic fibers, tires and packaging materials also contribute to the release of fibers carried by the wind.
Before 2020, air samples in Xi’an showed greater diversity in the types and colors of plastic, indicating multiple sources. But after the spread of masks, transparent and white fibers, matching the materials used in the manufacture of masks, dominated, as a result of the erosion of discarded masks due to friction and sunlight.
The results indicate that inhalation of microplastics occurs with almost every breath we take, and these particles may reach the trachea and even deep into the lungs.
Children and adolescents are the most vulnerable to the deposition of these particles in their bodies, raising health concerns that require further toxicological studies to understand the long-term effects on human health.
