Aerodynamic Characterization of Microplastics for Predicting Long-range Atmospheric Transport to the Arctic Region and the Assessment of Sampling Methods

To provide a basis for calibration of microplastic (MP) and microfiber (MF) atmospheric transport models to estimate the range of travel of contaminants observed in the Arctic, through physical experiments to measure the behavior of MPs in the air. Atmospheric transport and deposition are a mechanism that is thought to bring Microplastic pollution to remote northern regions such as the Arctic. The overarching long-term objective of the proposed research is to build capability to predict the atmospheric transport and deposition of Microplastics to the Arctic, which can be used to inform future domestic and international policy aimed at the mitigation of plastic pollution to the Arctic, and therefore, the impacts of these contaminants on the health and traditional lifestyles of Northerners. In the short-term, the proposed research is centered on physical experiments to measure the behaviour of Microplastics in the air.