Microplastics are now known to contaminate soils worldwide—especially in farmlands where plastic mulch films are commonly used. These films can break down into microplastic particles that stay in the soil, raising concerns about long-term environmental impacts. To properly study these risks, scientists need test materials that closely resemble the real microplastics found in the environment. However, there’s currently a shortage of such materials.
This study focused on creating and analyzing realistic microplastic test materials made from agricultural mulch films. Researchers produced five large batches (ranging from 1 to 40 kilograms) using both traditional polyethylene (PE) films and biodegradable starch-based plastic films. They documented the challenges of grinding these materials into fine particles, especially with virgin (unused) polyethylene, and discussed trade-offs between producing the ideal particle types and managing time and cost.
The team carried out detailed chemical and physical tests on both the original films and the resulting microplastic particles, including checks for chemical additives. This type of careful analysis is essential for understanding how microplastics behave and affect ecosystems.
The study offers practical recommendations for improving how test materials are made and used, helping future research more accurately reflect real-world conditions.
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