Aplicações da Física na detecção e caracterização de microplásticos

Abstract

In this work, plastics and microplastics (MPs) are analyzed, with emphasis on their formation processes, environmental distribution, and persistence in ecosystems, as well as the main impacts associated with MP contamination in the environment and the potential risks to human health. The study addresses exposure pathways, bioaccumulation, and possible toxicological effects resulting from the ingestion and inhalation of these particles. Furthermore, it is demonstrated how Physics contributes to the identification and characterization of MPs through spectroscopic techniques, particularly Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy. The physical foundations of these techniques are presented, based on the interaction between electromagnetic radiation and molecular vibrational modes, which enables the distinction and classification of different types of polymers, highlighting the role of Physics in monitoring and addressing the microplastics problem.