Research on Removal of Microplastics by Drinking Water Treatment Processes

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About this contract

The presence of microplastics in water and effects on fauna has led to concerns about ecological risk particularly in the marine environment. Existing water treatment processes provide an effective barrier to a wide range of particle sizes but is less effective in the micrometre range under which microplastics fall. Little is known about removal of microplastics in drinking water treatment. This project aims to help fill that gap and will include: 1) Review existing literature on occurrence of microplastics in water sources, drinking water, the relative importance of different sources of inputs to water and removal by drinking water processes. 2) Review the methods of analysis that have been used to determine microplastics in water. 3) Summarise existing knowledge on human exposure to microplastics through food, water and air and any associated risk assessments 4) Conduct bench scale experiments to determine the efficiency of removal of a different sizes and types of microplastics by a range of drinking water treatment processes. 5) Based on the findings of the bench study and other aspects, propose an approach to monitoring a small number of final waters for microplastics A draft final report must be submitted to the Defra Project Officer within 24 months (two months prior to the end of the contract). Additional information: The procurement documents are available for unrestricted and full direct access, free of charge, at http://defra.bravosolution.co.uk

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