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09 Does the type of microplastic suggest its source?

Yes, the type of microplastic can suggest a possible source. Microplastics in sediment and beach samples are mostly polystyrene, likely from cottagers’ old docks. Polypropylene was also found, likely from food containers. Microplastics in surface water and precipitation are mostly polyester fibres from textiles and clothing.  


This chart shows the individual percentages of each polymer type identified in the collected samples, along with the number (n) of particles whose polymers were identified. For the scientists on the lake: the other category includes some nasty-sounding polymers (polyethylene, polyacrylamide, acrylonitrile, polyhaloolefins, polymethacrylates, polysiloxanes, ethylene-vinyl acetate).
This chart shows the individual percentages of each polymer type identified in the collected samples, along with the number (n) of particles whose polymers were identified. For the scientists on the lake: the other category includes some nasty-sounding polymers (polyethylene, polyacrylamide, acrylonitrile, polyhaloolefins, polymethacrylates, polysiloxanes, ethylene-vinyl acetate).

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