Mikroplastik im Wasserkreislauf

The interdisciplinary research project MiWa focused on principle knowledge gaps of analytical detection and effects of microplastic in fresh water cycles. Methods for environmental sampling, sample preparation and different analytical identification and quantification were intensively investigated, compared and further developed. Toxicological studies were conducted to assess potential risks of microplastic particles towards the environment and human health. Harmonization and standardization are still only partially possible despite various improvements. The eco-toxicological experiments confirmed the intake of microplastic particles by different organisms but no hazardous effects could be found. Both direct ingestions and indirect exposition within food webs were tested. Interactions with exemplary human cells were only observed for particle sizes far below 1 µm (thus nanoplastic). An assessment is currently only possible to a limited extent.