PhD thesis supervisor: dr. Steigvilė Byčenkienė (apply for recommendation)
Investigation of the dynamics of airborne microplastic particles
Airborne microplastic pollution is increasingly recognised as a significant environmental and public health challenge; however, knowledge regarding the behaviour of microplastic particles in the atmosphere, their sources, and transformation processes remains limited. This study aims to address this gap by comprehensively investigating the dynamics of microplastic particles in ambient air and the factors driving variations in their concentrations. Relationships between microplastic concentrations and changing meteorological conditions (wind speed and direction, precipitation, relative humidity, and temperature) will be assessed to identify seasonal variations and potential patterns. In addition, the physical and morphological properties of microplastic particles (size, shape, and colour) as well as their polymer composition will be analysed, enabling more accurate identification and attribution of pollution sources. The results of this study will contribute to a deeper understanding of microplastic behaviour in the atmosphere, provide a foundation for population exposure and risk assessment, and support the development of scientifically grounded recommendations for reducing microplastic pollution and guiding future environmental and public health research.