DISPERSION AND ATMOSPHERIC DEPOSITION OF MICROPLASTICS DURING EXCAVATION IN LANDFILLS

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• Available online in Detritus - In Press

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Abstract

Landfills are recognized as important reservoirs of microplastics (MPs), which may be remobilized and dispersed into the atmosphere through anthropogenic activities. In the context of landfill mining, excavation operations can intensify dust generation and promote the release of previously buried microplastics, yet this pathway remains poorly investigated. This study evaluated the influence of landfill mining excavation on the atmospheric dispersion and deposition of microplastics under distinct operational and spatial conditions at a landfill located in northeastern Brazil. Atmospheric particles were collected using passive atmospheric deposition sampling at five sampling points representing distinct excavation and operational scenarios. Putative microplastics were visually identified and quantified using stereomicroscopy without polymer confirmation. The highest deposition rates were observed near the excavation of older waste deposits, indicating that prolonged burial plays an important role in plastic degradation and the generation of secondary microplastics. Lower deposition rates were recorded at locations less directly influenced by excavation, suggesting contributions from routine landfill activities such as waste transport and leachate management. Fibers and fragments with light coloration predominated, consistent with advanced weathering of plastic materials. Overall, the results indicate that excavation during landfill mining may enhance atmospheric microplastic remobilization and dispersion. These findings highlight the importance of including atmospheric microplastic monitoring in environmental assessment and management frameworks for landfill mining projects.

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Keywords

• Landfill mining
• Waste excavation
• Passive sampling
• Environmental impact

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Editorial History

• Received: 19 Mar 2026
• Revised: 28 May 2026
• Accepted: 19 Jun 2026
• Available online: 16 Jul 2026

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