Microplastic analysis in coastal waters of Ennore-Tamil Nadu, India: leveraging image processing and FTIR spectroscopy for identification and quantification.

This study investigates the occurrence, characterization, and spatial distribution of microplastics (MP) in the coastal waters of Tamil Nadu, focusing on a 20 sq.km grid area near the Ennore region. Driven by escalating concerns over plastic pollution, the research aimed to identify and quantify MP types and their distribution across seven distinct sampling locations (E1-E7). The methodology involved meticulous filtration of water samples, followed by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy for polymer identification and advanced image processing for quantification. The findings consistently revealed the presence of various polymers, including polystyrene (PS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) polymer. Significant variations in plastic accumulation were observed across sampling points, with an estimated 0.59 ± 0.53 kg of marine MPs found within the study region's 100,000 m3 water sample volume. Individual sample measurements ranged from 0.17 to 1.5 kg across various locations. This alarming trend underscores the critical need for continuous environmental monitoring and the implementation of effective mitigation strategies to combat plastic pollution in marine ecosystems. The study highlights the utility of combined spectroscopic and image processing techniques for robust microplastic assessment and provides crucial baseline data for future research and policy interventions in the region.