Determination of microplastics from galunggong (Decapterus macarellus): an optimization method/
Edgin V. Allunar, Angelika D. Benlayo, Jade Erica T. Burgos, and Ana Mae Kristine L. Sepro .--
- Manila: Technological University of the Philippines, 2024.
- 153pages: 29cm. +1 CD-ROM (4 3/4in.)
Thesis (undergraduate)
College of Science .--
Includes bibliography.
Plastics are major environmental contaminants, especially in aquatic environments. This study sought to investigate microplastic contamination in Male Mackerel Scad (Decapterus macarellus) from Metro Manila's wet markets. Microplastics (MPs) such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polystyrene (PS) pose significant risks to human health and marine life when ingested. To improve the isolation of microplastics in various protocols by alkaline digestion using 10% potassium hydroxide (KOH), the use of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) was employed. The study aimed to assess the digestion efficiency and percent recovery of KOH and SDS digestion at different concentrations, temperatures, and time. The optimization of the digestion method was conducted on the Gastrointestinal Tract, and Fish Meat of Mackerel Scad sourced at several markets in Metro Manila served as the limitation of the study. Attenuated Total Reflectance-Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) Spectroscopy and Optical Microscopy were used in the characterization, identification, and chemical analysis of MPs. Additionally, this research aimed to advance the knowledge about microplastic prevalence in the local fish distribution network. The result served as a valuable key in optimizing and establishing a standard protocol for microplastic isolation.