Characterization And Identification Of Microplastics In Domestic Settings: A Comparative Analysis Of Rocket And Traditional Stoves In Islamabad’s Slums

Abstract

In this study, we estimated the microplastic content present in particulate matter (PM) of two types of stoves: traditional and rocket stoves in the H-11 and F-11 slums. 24 samples were collected with the help of an air sampler; two samples of PM10 and two samples of PM2.5 were collected from both slums. Raman spectroscopy and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy were applied to the PM samples for the identification and characterization of microplastic samples. Furthermore, the PM concentration was measured in terms of mass in each sample. The main objectives of this study were to determine the concentrations of PM10 and PM2.5 sampled from traditional and improved cooking environments and to provide molecular fingerprints of the particles, confirming their polymeric nature. A comparative analysis of the presence of microplastics and their potential health effects between traditional and rocket stoves was the research question of interest. The results found a significant difference between the microplastic contamination between the two stove types: rocket stoves tend to have lower concentrations of microplastics in both PM10 and PM2.5 samples, as compared to traditional stoves. This reduction in microplastic pollution indicates a potential health benefit for populations using rocket stoves, as inhalation of microplastics is associated with various adverse health effects. In conclusion, our findings indicate that rocket stoves are not only a cleaner cooking option in terms of particulate matter, but they also lower microplastic exposure, making them a superior alternative to traditional stoves in slum areas. This study emphasizes the importance of stove type in reducing microplastic pollution and associated health hazards.