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Calcite carbonate sinks low-density plastic debris in open oceans

Environmental Studies and Forestry

Calcite carbonate sinks low-density plastic debris in open oceans

X. Sun, Y. Zhang, et al.

This groundbreaking research conducted by Xiang-Fei Sun and colleagues explores the unexpected sinking of low-density microplastics in ocean sediments, shedding light on their interactions with microbially induced calcium carbonate precipitation. Discover the role of size and shape in their settling patterns and why calcite is a game changer in understanding oceanic plastic pollution.

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Playback language: English
Abstract
The vertical settling of plastic debris in oceans is poorly understood. This study uses a model incorporating microbially induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP) and new motion equations for irregular low-density microplastics (LDMPs). The model shows that LDMPs (10–200 µm) gain sufficient density to sink to the ocean floor, explaining their presence in sediments. Size and shape significantly affect settling patterns, highlighting calcite's importance in LDMP sinking.
Publisher
Nature Communications
Published On
Jun 06, 2024
Authors
Xiang-Fei Sun, Yanxu Zhang, Meng-Yi Xie, Lei Mai, Eddy Y. Zeng
Tags
microplastics
ocean pollution
settling patterns
calcium carbonate
environmental science
marine sediments
density

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