Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) for Analysis of Microplastic Content in Sediment and Seawater in Pancer Beach Area, Jember Regency

Abstract

Introduction: Plastic pollution in the world's oceans is an internationally recognized environmental issue. Mismanagement of plastic waste in coastal communities, resulting in an estimated annual input of 4.8 to 12.7 million metric tons of plastic into the world's oceans. Plastic is not easily degraded so it can have an impact on microplastic contamination. Pancer Beach is one of the tourist attractions in Jember Regency which is directly adjacent to the Indian Ocean. Dense population activities can potentially pollute microplastics to the environment. In addition, the tourist attraction of Pancer beach as a tourist destination from various parts of the region causes environmental pollution. This study was conducted to determine the characteristics, abundance, and polymers of seawater microplastics and sediments in Pancer Beach

Objectives:  This study was conducted to determine the characteristics, abundance, and polymers of seawater microplastics and sediments in Pancer Beach

Methods: The method used is laboratory testing using stereo and FTIR microscopes with three samples each at three location points.

Results: Microplastic particles obtained consist of 3 forms including fibers, filaments, and fragments found in all locations and sediment samples. Seawater samples were found only 2 types, such as fiber and filaments. The color of each particle consists of black, purple, green, blue, clear, and brown in seawater and sediment samples.  

Conclusions: The highest abundance of seawater microplastics reached 0.23 particles/ml and sediment 0.41 particles/gr. FTIR analysis revealed that polymers indicated in seawater and sediments were nylon, High density polyethylene (HDPE), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC).