Plastic bits and toxic hitchhikers in Langat River

Microplastics are tiny plastic pieces that can be found in water. They can carry harmful chemicals like PCBs. A study looked at the Langat River in Malaysia. They checked six spots from the river mouth to areas further inland. The study found different amounts of microplastics at each spot. The highest number was at station S6. This area has more homes and factories. So, more plastic waste likely ends up here. Microplastics can have cracks and holes. Other small bits can stick to them. Scientists used special tools to see what was on the microplastics. They found aluminum and potassium. They also found PCBs, which are toxic chemicals. The water's temperature, saltiness, and acidity can affect how PCBs stick to microplastics. In open sea areas, PCBs might spread out more. In river areas, they might stick to microplastics more. PCBs stick to microplastics in different ways. They can be attracted by similar chemical properties. They can also stick due to weak chemical bonds. This study shows that microplastics can carry toxic chemicals. It's important to check for microplastics in rivers. This can help protect the environment and people's health.