Simulation of microplastic transport and dispersion based on a three-dimensional hydrodynamic particle-tracking model in the Beibu Gulf.

ABSTRACT: The Beibu Gulf, a representative semi-enclosed bay in the South China Sea, experiences microplastic transport and dispersion governed by a complex interplay of monsoons, ocean circulation, and extreme weather events, warranting systematic investigation. We developed a numerical modeling framework by coupling a three-dimensional hydrodynamic model with a Lagrangian particle-tracking module, and validated it against in observations. The model quantitatively demonstrates high accuracy, with maximum spatial deviations below 6 km and relative standard deviations within 7%, confirming its suitability for simulating microplastic transport. The simulation results indicate that the transport of microplastics in the Beibu Gulf is primarily controlled by the oceanic hydrodynamic environment, while al

SUBMITTER: Sun C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12712604 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature