Evaluation of microplastic and microfiber formation as a result of domestic laundry washing

Microplastics, one of the most important pollution problems today, pose a great threat to our country's resources. Microplastics are among the components that must be monitored closely in order to determine their sources and to minimise their formation as their presence in many natural environments and their emissions are increasing. This study aims to determine the amount of microplastics and microfibers discharged into wastewater by washing textile products with different compositions in a washing machine in Tekirdağ province by experimental studies and to evaluate the accumulation of these microplastics and microfibers over the years by sensitivity analysis within the scope of dynamic model. In the experimental studies, the wastewater collected from the washing machine drain was passed through filters of different sizes. The dried filters were imaged with a light microscope and the weights of the microplastics and microfibers held in the filter were determined. Then, by building a dynamic system model, the accumulation of microplastics and microfibers between 2017 and 2030 was examined on a stock-flow diagram, taking into account regional population dynamics and social behaviour. The literature review and questionnaire study provided data for the model. The results obtained from the simulation of the model and experimental studies were compared and examined. As a result of this study, it was determined that the 200µm filter has the highest efficiency among the 200 µm, 100 µm, 50µm, 5µm filters used. In addition, according to the model simulation results, it is estimated that the microplastics-microfibers accumulation will be in the range of 30-200 tonnes/year in the specified period. It has been specified that this range of values is consistent with the results of experimental studies and the studies conducted in different regions with similar characteristics. Accordingly, it has been concluded that attempts to reduce microplastics-microfibers release with an apparatus to be attached to washing machines will be effective in reducing this pollution.