Analysis of Micro Plastics on Feces of Community Consumed Shellfish at Coastal Area Takalar, South Sulawesi- Indonesia

Abstract

The presence of micro plastics in food webs has been established. However, human exposure to micro plastics masses has not determined, thus impeding human health risk assessment. This study aim was identifying the shape, color, type of polymer and concentration of micro plastics in human feces in the coastal area of Pa'lalakkang Village, Galesong District, Takalar Regency, South Sulawesi-Indonesia. This research is a type of descriptive research using laboratory tests. Feces samples were taken from 18 respondents who consumed shellfish and sea fish, with criteria aged 20-60 years and consuming 2-3 shellfish per week. Data were obtained through observation, interviews, examination of fecal samples in the laboratory, identification of polymer types using FTIR, and documentation. The data obtained were then analyzed using the Microsoft Excel 2010 program. The results showing that form of micro plastics found was 61% line, 35% fragment, 3% film and 1% pallet. The types of polymers found based on identification using FTIR were Polyurethane (PU), Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA), Polystyrene (PS). the average concentration of micro plastics in feces was 31 particles/g.