Microplastic analysis in urban areas and their impact on quality of life

National Institute for Research and Development in Mine Safety and Protection to Explosion – INSEMEX Petroșani, Romania

^* Corresponding author: angela.gaman@insemex.ro

Abstract

Plastic pollution is a major threat to both biodiversity and human health. Due to its high environmental persistence, concern has grown in recent years regarding the effects of microplastic pollution on ecosystems and its potential long-term impact on human well-being. Advancing research into the identification of microplastics in freshwater systems is a crucial step toward addressing this environmental challenge. However, a significant global issue remains: the lack of standardized methods for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of microplastics in environmental samples. This study focuses on the identification and quantification of microplastics in two tributaries of the Jiul River, located in western Romania. Sampling was conducted at two monitoring sites, with Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) combined with infrared microscopy used to generate reliable, high-resolution data. The microplastics analysed (particles <5 mm) were classified by size and polymer type. Results showed microplastics present at only one of the two sites—specifically, at the confluence of the Maleia stream with the eastern Jiul River. Most particles measured between 25 and 50 μm and were primarily composed of PET, LDPE, and HDPE polymers. PET was the most frequently detected, highlighting the need for targeted.