Real-world natural passivation phenomena can limit microplastic generation in water

Previous studies using Deionized (DI) water found that household plastic products used in food preparation and storage are a local immediate source of extremely high quantities microplastics (MPs) released directly into to the human body environment. However, DI is rarely outside laboratories. Here, MP release from exposed ordinary drinking was studied. To facilitate this study, concept Synthetic (SDW) introduced, which involved preparing accordance with WHO standard but modified mimic composition Tap (TDW). It level plastics TDW SDW very similar, demonstrating an appropriate real-world reference test levels products. In contrast use water, hot (40–100 °C) showed progressive development Copper (II) oxide (CuO) passivation film due presence Cu2+ ions samples. Similar films formed on 97% all grade plastics. Longitudinal polypropylene (kettles) boiling during normal resulted continuous growth CuO ultimately yielded 99.8% reduction release. Engineered reductions were observed following separate controlled exposures elevated levels, yielding denser films. This study underscores importance reproducing real world conditions microplastic also potential for nature-inspired engineered mitigate against MPs possibility sustainable MP-free