In this project, the problem of microplastic pollution has been researched and described, and a conceptual device for its removal has been proposed.
Microplatic pollution
is a relatively poorly researched problem, and there are no major removal technologies in
place. Due to the constant rise in the use of synthetic polymers, and the disposable
characteristics of many products, the problem will only get worse. Microplastics are most commonly defined as synthetic organic polymer particles with a size smaller than 5 mm. In the natural environment, plastic degradation is mostly triggered by temperature and UV
radiation, and can take centuries. Accidental ingestion of microplastics can cause reproductive problems in fish and close the
gut of filter-feeding organisms such as mussels and oysters. Additional issues might be caused by additives, such as plasticisers, stabilisers and pigments. At the moment however, the full impact of microplastic pollution remains unknown.
Major Project - Microplastic Pollution Removal Device (2016/17)
