STOKE-ON-TRENT – Academics at Staffordshire University have assessed the potential for contamination during microplastic sample collections on research trips and revealed that more than 70 per cent of particles found could stem from things like the clothing researchers have worn.
Claire Gwinnett, professor in forensic and environmental science at Staffordshire University, explained: “In the field this can occur due to the dynamic nature of the environment such as wind or weather, actions required to obtain samples and the close-proximity necessary for scientists to procure and secure samples whether in a medium-sized vessel, small boat or sampling from shore.”
The researchers believe their findings could help inform future work in the space and ultimately aid the reduction of procedural contamination.
