Microplastics in the Water of Batang Anai Estuary, Padang Pariaman Regency, Indonesia: Assessing Effects on Riverine Plastic Load in the Marine Environment

Abstract

Microplastic (MP) is one of the most dangerous contaminants due to its ecotoxicological impact on the aquatic environment, aquatic biota, and human health. Defined as particles less than 5 mm, these contaminants originates from either primary or secondary source. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the abundance, shape, color, size, and type of microplastic (MP) polymers. In the process, water samples were collected from 3 distinct points in the Batang Anai River, to obtain MP. Subsequently, analysis was conducted using a microscope and Attenuated Total Reflection-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR). The results showed that the abundance of MP in the water samples ranged from 37-77 particles/L, and the most dominant shapes, colors, and sizes identified were fragments (49.44%), black (48%), and sizes >1,000 µm (33%), respectively. Characterization and interpretation of functional groups in the FTIR spectrum indicated the presence of cellulose polymer, ethylene-propylene copolymer, neoprene, and polyester. In conclusion, this report can be used as initial information to help control plastic waste pollution.