Toward Recycling of Marine Debris - Analysis of Microplastics Using FTIR and EDX -

Introduction

In addition to microplastics (very small plastic particles) drifting in seawater, marine debris also includes relatively large pieces of plastic generated by the breakup of plastic products by ultra violet radiation and other external factors, and small pieces of fishing gear like the fishing line. Fishing nets, trawling nets, fishing lines, etc., were formerly made from natural materials, but now they are usually made of synthetic resin. This is because it is easier to give functionality to synthetic resin. On the other hand, when such materials are not properly managed or disposed of, they become marine debris and are a factor in environmental destruction. Therefore, it is hoped that this kind of marine debris will be collected and reused as a raw material for new fishing gear. The causes of deterioration and breakup of fishing nets are contact with fish, algae, and stones in the sea and on beaches, as well as ultraviolet radiation from the sun. An example of a way to prevent this kind of naturally occurring damage and continue using fishing nets over a long period of time is to give the surface of fishing nets used for aquaculture a protective coating of copper. The heavy element copper (Cu) used for the protective coating has an antibacterial effect and not only protects against bacteria and viruses but also has the function of preventing fouling, so it plays an important role on fishing nets. Copper not only maintains the strength of the fishing nets, but also gives excellent functionality. However, in recent years it has been reported that it might have a negative impact on fish and the marine environment, and its use has been a concern. This article introduces an example of analysis using FTIR and EDX on actual fishing nets collected on the Playa de Muro beach on the Spanish island of Majorca and the Paal 9 beach on the island of Texel in the Netherlands, and on fishing nets obtained from a recycling plant.

January 23, 2019 GMT