Physicochemical Characterization of Microplastics in Refillable Water Gallon Containers
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https://doi.org/10.65166/jnrrwf32关键词:
microplastics, refillable water containers, drinking water quality, FTIR spectroscopy, polyamide, environmental health摘要
Microplastic contamination in drinking water has become an emerging environmental health concern, particularly in communities that rely on refillable water gallon containers for household consumption. This study aimed to determine the presence, physical characteristics, and chemical composition of microplastics in drinking water collected from refillable water gallon containers used by selected households in Barangay 641, San Miguel, Manila. A descriptive-quantitative research design was employed. Twenty 250-mL water samples were collected and subjected to vacuum filtration using a 0.45 µm membrane filter. The retained particles were examined through USB digital microscopy and the Hot Needle Test to screen, classify, count, and measure suspected microplastics. Representative particles were further analyzed using Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy to identify probable polymer composition. Results showed that 12 out of 20 samples, or 60%, tested positive for microplastics. A total of 32 microplastic particles were detected, with an average of 1.6 particles per 250-mL sample. The particles were classified as fibers and microfibers, each accounting for 50% of the detected particles. Fibers ranged from 1.01 to 3.22 mm, while microfibers ranged from 0.27 to 0.95 mm. FTIR analysis identified the representative particles as probable polyamide based on characteristic absorption peaks. The findings provide baseline evidence of microplastic occurrence in refillable water gallon samples and support the need for improved monitoring, handling practices, and consumer safety assessment in refillable drinking-water systems.
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