Microplastic in beach sediments of the Isle of Riigen (Baltic Sea) - Implementing a novel glass elutriation column

摘要

To extent the understanding on microplastics in the marine environment we performed a case study at four beaches on the Isle of Rugen considering abundance and spatial distribution of microplastics in beach sediments. For the analysis, density separation via a glass elutriation column was implemented. In advance, efficiencies were tested for two polymers, being not buoyant in water. Recovery rates of 80% for PET and 72% for PVC particles in sandy samples were achieved.