Exposure to microplastics and nanoplastics — particles smaller than 5 millimeters and 1 micrometer across, respectively — have been linked to adverse health outcomes. Although some of their sources are well known, others haven’t been thoroughly vetted yet. Below are recent papers published in ACS journals that report new insights into the origins of some microscopic plastic pieces: laser-cut acrylic sheets, orthodontic rubber bands and children’s food containers. Reporters can request free access to these papers by emailing newsroom@acs.org.
“Characterization of Emissions from Carbon Dioxide Laser Cutting Acrylic Plastics”
ACS Chemical Health & Safety
June 22, 2023
In today’s era of online sellers and do-it-yourself crafters, small, carbon dioxide laser cutters have become popular tools to cut and engrave designs into acrylic…
