Characterization and environmental impacts of microplastics

Microplastics (MPs) are small plastic particles with size < 5 mm. In recent years, MPs have received increasing public attention across the world because they are widely distributed in the environment, which has posed a potential threat to ecosystem and human health. This paper systematically reviewed the analysis methods of MPs including physical characterization (visual inspection, optical and electron microscopy) and chemical characterization (Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and thermal analysis). To better grasp the research status and development trend of MPs, the characteristics, application range and a pros and cons of each analysis method were analyzed and compared. Aiming at the problems and shortcomings of analysis methods at present, further research needs were put forward. Furthermore, this critical review also covered current knowledge and research findings on the sources, distribution, environmental impacts of MPs in the soil, atmosphere and water. We found that current research of MPs was mainly focused on the aquatic environment. Based on research gaps, main recommendations for future research were proposed as well. (c) 2021 International Association for Gondwana Research. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.