Wastewater treatment plants can largely remove microplastic particles contained in wastewater using conventional treatment processes. By using ultrafiltration downstream of the wastewater treatment plant, particle retention can be increased even further. This is the central result of the research project "Plastrat" within the framework of the BMBF research focus "Plastics in the environment - sources, sinks, approaches to solutions". The partners in the project, which received three million euros in funding, have now published their final synthesis report after a three-year period.

In addition to the University of the Federal Armed Forces Munich, which coordinated the project, ten partners from science and industry were involved in the project. According to the University of the Federal Armed Forces Munich, they consider a holistic approach to be necessary for research in the field of microplastics. This starts with the necessary standardization of sampling, sample preparation and analysis of microplastics from both aqueous samples and sewage sludge, for which initial approaches would have been developed in the "Plastrat" project.

According to the university, the report provides initial answers to current questions on the subject of microplastics in water bodies, concerning the quantity of inputs and the methodology for measuring them. It would also address questions about how inputs could be reduced and what effects the particles might have on water bodies and humans.

 

For more information, download the "Plastrat" synthesis report (in German language).

 

Sources:

• PM University of the Federal Armed Forces Munich (22.4.2021)
• recyclingportal.eu (27.4.2021)
• Photo: © Pixelio / Uschi Dreiucker