INSIGHTS INTO THE PRESENCE, CHARACTERISTICS, AND POTENTIAL RELATED RISKS OF MICROPLASTICS FROM ORAL CARE PRODUCTS

Microplastics pose a significant risk to human health and the environment. This research examines microplastics in oral care products, particularly mouthwash, using morphological and chemical characterisation. A robust isolation protocol ensured the sample matrix was representative. Evaluation of digestion methods found that weak acids were ineffective and that strong oxidants were damaging to polymers. While alkaline treatment is feasible, the peroxide-based method proved optimal. Comprehensive characterisation is required to combine optical microscopy with micro-FTIR screening to ensure reliable data. A health risk assessment found that polypropylene and amorphous acrylate polymers in mouthwash pose a moderate to high risk for both adults and children.