Study finds microplastics in water generate free radicals
New research indicates that a key chemical reaction occurs when water touches plastic surfaces. Lab experiments suggest the process can produce molecules that may harm the body through oxidative stress and inflammation.
By Standard Topic. AI-generated from the reporting listed under Coverage. Published . Updated .
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What happened
New research indicates that when water contacts plastic surfaces, a key chemical reaction takes place, producing free radicals. Lab experiments suggest tiny bits of plastic can react with water inside the body to create highly reactive molecules. These molecules can lead to oxidative stress and inflammation.
Why it matters
The effect on people remains an ongoing question.
Timeline
- Oct 15, 2:39 PM ET: Reports said microplastics in water are not inert and produce damaging chemicals on their own, though their effect on people is still being studied.
- Oct 16, 1:03 PM ET: Lab experiments suggested tiny plastic bits can react with water inside the body to produce highly reactive molecules that cause oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Oct 17, 8:00 AM ET: New research indicated that a key chemical reaction occurs when water contacts plastic surfaces, creating free radicals.
Coverage
- Microplastics and water create free radicals, new study finds (Los Angeles Times)
- Microplastics Have Been Linked With Myriad Human Health Problems. Scientists May Have Finally Figured Out How They Harm the Body (smithsonianmag.com)
- Microplastics in water aren’t inert and make damaging chemicals on their own (arstechnica.com)
- Scientists May Have Discovered One Way Microplastics Could Harm the Body (Yahoo News)
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