Autonomous, In-Situ Fugitive Microplastic Detector and Datalogger: Phase I
Project Information
Recyclers of plastics see road construction as an ideal outlet for microplastic refuse, ideally binding unwanted plastic into a solid matrix that improves the performance of the nation’s highways. Despite the seeming attractiveness of recycled plastic as an asphalt improver, there is trepidation over systematically spreading the chemical constituents of plastics over large geographic areas. Therefore, an innovative technique is necessary to assess the particular concentration of microplastics entering the environment in various size ranges, both via the aerosol (dust) route, and the first-flush runoff route. Proposed in this Phase I project is a continuous monitor of first-flush aqueous and airborne particulate to quantitate road wear particles by composition, plastic content, and size.
- Small Business Innovation Research
- FY 2002-2022 / Infrastructure / Pavements and Materials
AMRP = Annual Modal Research Plan