Abstract 2469 Identifying influential factors on the interaction between microplastic pollutants and trace elements in Long Run Creek, IL

Microplastics are incredibly pervasive plastic pollutants measuring less than five millimeters in size. Though found virtually everywhere, little is known about the long-term health consequences of microplastics, especially in natural waters. To fully analyze the broader health implications, it is crucial to first understand the physicochemical characteristics that make microplastics so harmful and the contribution of environmental conditions-namely, the presence of trace elements, which can be harmful in high concentrations and are often adsorbed onto microplastics, and water chemistry.