Distribution and characterization of microplastics in beach sediments from Karnataka (India) coastal environments

The presence of microplastic particles from five different beach locations (Arabian Sea coast) in the Indian state of Karnataka was assessed. The sieving and density separation method was modified to enhance the yield of microplastics. Three different techniques were used to characterize isolated microplastics, such as optical fluorescence microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and FESEM-EDX. Microplastic concentrations ranged from 264 +/- 62 n/kg to 1002 +/- 174 n/kg of dry sand in beach sediments, and the average abundance of the five beaches was 664 +/- 114 n/kg. The majority of the microplastics were fragmented, <1 mm in size, white and transparent in color. FESEM images of microplastics show the roughness, cracks, mechanical and oxidative weathering, indicating their continuous exposure in the environment. EDX spectra provide the presence of various elements on the microplastic surface.

Automated summary

Microplastic particles from five different beach locations in Karnataka, India were assessed, with their concentration ranging from 264 to 1002 n/kg of dry sand. The majority of the microplastics were fragmented, <1 mm in size, white and transparent in color, showing roughness, cracks, mechanical, and oxidative weathering on their surface. EDX spectra revealed the presence of various elements on the microplastic surface.