Micro and Nano-fragmentation of expanded polystyrene ?exposed to sunlight

Abstract

1. Approximately 50 to 80 million nano-expanded polystyrene (EPS) particles per cm2 were produced by 2 to 8 months of sunlight exposure. 2. The EPS particles less than 100 nm in size obviously increased according to sunlight exposure duration. 3. Microplastics larger than 10 mm accounted for over 90% of total weight of the fragmented particles. 4. Approximately 4.7 years are required to fragment 50% of EPS cube by sunlight weathering.ion. 3. Microplastics larger than 10 mm accounted for over 90% of total weight of the fragmented particles. 4. Approximately 4.7 years are required to fragment 50% of EPS cube by sunlight weathering.