The research involved 10 participants who wore 100 per cent cotton and polyester-containing T-shirts during active daytime hours. Researchers also conducted 12-hour baseline air measurements in participants’ bedrooms to assess background concentrations.
Airborne microplastic concentrations approached 2,000 particles per cubic metre when participants wore polyester T-shirts. Up to 77 per cent of the detected particles were microscopic, while polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a polymer commonly used in polyester textiles, was identified among 99 per cent of the airborne microplastics detected.
University of Memphis pilot findings suggest fabric type may affect microplastic levels in the personal breathing zone, with polyester T-shirts raising exposure by up to 42 per cent over cotton.
The study involved 10 participants wearing cotton and polyester-containing T-shirts, plus 12-hour bedroom baseline air measurements.
PET was found among 99 per cent of detected airborne microplastics.
Researchers used micro-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (micro-FTIR) to examine the particles’ size and chemical composition, including polymer identification.
“Our findings suggest that synthetic garments are a contributing source of microplastic particles within an individual’s immediate breathing zone,” said Chunrong Jia, Professor of Environmental Health at the University of Memphis. “While airborne microplastics exist in general indoor environments, fabric choice can affect how many microplastic particles a person is exposed to.”
The study received funding from the National Cotton Council’s (NCC) Cotton Foundation, although the research team independently managed its design, sample collection, analysis and interpretation.
The researchers cautioned that the findings remain preliminary, citing sampling variability, measurement uncertainties and other potential sources of airborne microplastics. Larger participant groups, additional clothing materials and repeated measurements will be required to confirm the observations and assess their broader implications.
“Our preliminary findings highlight the need for further research before drawing definitive conclusions. Scientists must continue improving measurement methods and reducing uncertainties. Since the long-term health and environmental impacts of microplastics are not yet fully understood, raising awareness among younger generations is especially important. They will inherit these environmental challenges, and their voices can help shape future research priorities, evidence-based regulations, and sustainable industry practices,” said Dr. Farhad Jazaei, Associate Professor at the University of Memphis.
Marjory Walker, Vice President of Operations at the National Cotton Council and Campaign Director for Plant Not Plastic, highlighted the importance of understanding how textile materials may affect personal exposure.
“As concerns grow about the potential impact of microplastics on human health, many people are looking for practical ways to reduce their exposure, as researchers continue working to better understand the long-term impacts,” said Walker. “These findings add to the growing body of research around microplastics and help consumers better understand how clothing and fabric choice may influence personal exposure.”
Dr. Jennifer Mandel, ACRE director, said the research reflected the value of interdisciplinary collaboration involving public health, engineering and agriculture.
“This research, which involves public health, engineering, and agriculture, highlights the kind of interdisciplinary collaboration that ACRE was created to support,” said Mandel. “As emerging issues, like microplastics, continue to cross traditional disciplinary boundaries, ACRE’s faculty and student researchers are ready to lead innovative scientific research that advances our understanding of these complex environmental questions.”
Fibre2Fashion News Desk (MS)
