Development of a low-cost system for sampling microplastics in water

Abstract

The microplastics sampling system in water was developed using low cost materials based on the international standard protocol of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration with the use of a nylon sampling net fixed to a treated wooden structure and with plastic tubes responsible for buoyancy. . Sampling was carried out in marine and fresh water off the coast of Santa Catarina, using boats as trailers in order to collect samples along the coastline. The developed structure presented excellent performances in terms of stability and robustness during the sampling process. The analysis and characterization of microplastics was carried out according to protocol recommendations using separation sieves. The developed system can be used in environmental monitoring involving the sampling of microplastics in water, in addition to its cost-effectiveness and accessibility for professionals in the area.