Boiling Reduces Microplastics in Drinking Water (Study)

Summary

A new study demonstrates that boiling tap water can significantly reduce human ingestion of harmful nanoplastics and microplastics, which are found in most tap water and pose potential health risks. The researchers found that when hard tap water containing over 120 mg/L of calcium carbonate is boiled, at least 80% of nanoplastics and microplastics between 0.1-150 microns precipitate out. Elevated temperatures cause the calcium carbonate and plastics to nucleate and aggregate. Through this simple, ancient practice, household tap water can be 'decontaminated' of these concerning particles. While effective for hard water, the lead author notes this may be less impactful for those with softer water.

Takeaways

• 😀 Microplastics in drinking water are a growing global concern due to potential health risks
• 😮 Boiling tap water can remove 80% of microplastics between 0.1-150 microns in size
• 🧪 The process works by causing microplastics to co-precipitate with calcium carbonate
• 🔬 Elevated temperatures reduce calcium carbonate solubility, causing it to precipitate
• ☕️ Microplastics become trapped in the precipitating calcium carbonate crystals
• 😋 The resulting solids can be filtered out, reducing microplastic intake from drinking water
• 💡 It's a simple, obtainable solution utilizing high school chemistry principles
• ❗️ Effectiveness depends on sufficient mineral content to enable precipitation
• 🤔 More research is needed on microplastics' impacts and optimal removal methods
• 👍🏻 Partial solutions like this boil method are still beneficial starting points

Q & A

What was the key finding of the recent study published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters?

The study found that boiling tap water can remove 80% or more of nanoplastics and microplastics ranging from 0.1 to 150 microns in size. The heat causes minerals like calcium carbonate to precipitate out of the water, trapping plastics inside.

How does boiling tap water help remove plastic particles?

When hard tap water with over 120mg/L of calcium carbonate is boiled, the solubility of calcium carbonate decreases. This causes it to precipitate out of the water, forming crusty deposits. These deposits encapsulate and trap plastic particles, allowing them to be filtered out.

Why is the intake of plastic particles through drinking water concerning?

Studies have shown connections between microplastic intake and hormone disruption in humans. Their small size also allows them to penetrate deeply into tissues. Reducing intake can alleviate potential health risks.

Is boiling an effective method for any type of tap water?

No, boiling is less effective for soft water with low mineral content. Hard water with ample calcium carbonate works best to trap plastic particles when boiled.

Should people start boiling all their drinking water?

No, boiling all drinking water is not necessary. The lead author suggests it may be reasonable for tap water known to contain higher levels of plastic pollution.

What were the sizes of plastic particles removed by boiling in the study?

The study found boiling removed 80% or more of plastic particles ranging from 0.1 to 150 microns in size from tap water.

What types of common plastics were removed by boiling?

The study found that boiling removed nanoplastics and microplastics made of polystyrene, polyethylene, and polypropylene.

How might boiling complement other filtration methods?

Boiling could work with other filters to remove plastic particles they normally cannot. It targets particles too small for most household filters.

What should be done after boiling tap water?

After boiling, the water should sit for 5-10 minutes to allow solids to settle. It then needs to be cooled before any particles are filtered out.

Where can I learn more about emerging research on microplastics?

Medcram.com offers ongoing coverage of new studies related to human health, including the effects of microplastics. Users can browse articles or earn CME credits.