Sampling, Sorting, and Characterizing Microplastics in Aquatic Environments with High Suspended Sediment Loads and Large Floating Debris

This method will help researchers quantify microplastic loads in rivers, which often contain high sediment loads, as they are a major source of plastic debris to the ocean. The main advantage of this technique is that it enables filtering and sorting of microplastics and water samples with high sediment loads at sizes not typically included in previous studies. To begin rinse the filtration device and nylon mesh sieves three times with deionized water.

Then place the mesh sieves into each union joint, with the pour sizes decreasing from top to bottom. To prevent leaks seal each joint tightly. Next wet a mixed cellulose ester membrane filter with deionized water.