Microplastics and nanoplastics in the atmosphere: the potential impacts on cloud formation processes.

ABSTRACT: The presence of microplastics and nanoplastics (MnPs) in the atmosphere and their transport on a global scale has previously been demonstrated. However, little is known about their environmental impacts. MnPs could act as cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) or ice nucleating particles (INPs), affecting cloud formation processes. In sufficient quantities, they could change the cloud albedo, precipitation, and lifetime, collectively impacting the Earth's radiation balance and climate. In this perspective, we evaluate the potential impact of MnPs on cloud formation by assessing their ability to act as CCN or INPs. Based on an analysis of their physicochemical properties, we propose that MnPs can act as INPs and potentially as CCN, after environmental ageing processes, such as photochemical weathe

SUBMITTER: Aeschlimann M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7613933 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature