Researchers at Coventry University discovered that disposable face masks release microplastics and harmful chemicals into the environment even without use. The study found that filtering facepieces released three to four times more microplastic particles than standard surgical masks.
Dr Anna Bogush and Dr Ivan Kourtchev placed unused masks in glass beakers containing ultra-pure water for 24 hours before analyzing the results. The findings showed particles were primarily made of polypropylene and measured less than 100 micrometers in size.
Beyond microplastics, chemicals including Bisphenol B were released from some mask types, which can harm aquatic life and potentially affect humans through the food chain. This research highlights the urgent need to reconsider how we produce and dispose of single-use masks.
#Microplastics #FaceMasks #Environment #Pollution #Research
