Microplastics

Analytical limitations, inconsistent measurement methods, and uncertain contamination sources complicate efforts to assess microplastics and nanoplastics in food.

Researchers developed a superhydrophilic membrane for nanoplastic and oil removal, achieving high separation efficiency while reducing membrane fouling.

Functional polymer coatings can improve microplastic removal from wastewater by enhancing particle capture, membrane performance, and selective filtration.

ASR plastics from end-of-life vehicles could replace natural sand in concrete, reducing landfill waste while supporting infrastructure use.

Measuring microplastics requires reliable detection, contamination control, validated methods, and reproducible analytical results.

Apoorva Kulkarni’s doctoral research helped shape ASTM D8646-26, which estimates temperature-dependent biodegradation behavior in aquatic environments.

The SPE Microplastics Forum takes place in Baltimore, Maryland, on Oct. 20–21, 2026, covering detection, regulation, and solutions.

Healthcare foams face growing pressure from PCR adoption, PFAS restrictions, EPR policies, and circularity goals across medical supply chains.

Microplastics can host microbial biofilms containing pathogens and antimicrobial resistance genes in aquatic environments.

Plastics in menstrual products affect hygiene, comfort, additive exposure, PFAS concerns, and environmental impact.