Measuring Microplastic Transport In Lakes: A Methodological Approach

Abstract

Materials called microplastics (MiPs) exist for a very long time in nature without decomposing. As a result, they are crucial to environmental degradation. Since MiPs may break down into little particles because of the oxidation and degradation of the polymer structures while exposed to UV rays like sunshine, they could be carried over long ranges by rain and winds. Furthermore, MiPs negatively impact human health through the food chain. The investigation was conducted in Dianchilake in Yunnan, China. Raman-Microscope and scanning electron microscope (SEM) instruments were used to examine lake data. MiP elements that are substantially smaller than those that have previously been reported were found in a large number of samples that were evaluated with a Raman-Microscope. Also, the Analysis of variance (ANOVA) model is used in this research for statistical analysis. We must reduce the number of microplastics in lakes and rivers, particularly in drinking water, by researching the optimal transport routes of these tiny pieces of plastic. This research will serve as a valuable foundation for future studies on the pathways of microplastic migration in other lakes and rivers.