Funding/Research Supports
NSERC and Government of Ontario
Project Status
Complete
Project Overview
The rise of microplastic pollution has become a critical environmental challenge, especially in urban regions with heavy road use. Road dust has been identified as a major source of microplastics, primarily generated from tire wear, brake wear, and pavement surface degradation. In Canada, with its extensive roadway system and high vehicle usage, the accumulation and distribution of microplastics on asphalt pavements pose potential risks to ecosystems and human health. However, the mechanisms governing their generation, distribution, and characteristics in pavement systems are not yet fully understood.
In this research, an experimental study will be conducted to investigate the presence and characteristics of microplastics in different asphalt pavements in Ottawa. Various pavement types and road conditions will be examined to evaluate the generation and accumulation of microplastics in road dust. Samples will be collected and analyzed using advanced laboratory techniques to identify microplastic content, size distribution, and morphology.
Different factors such as traffic load, pavement condition, and environmental exposure will be considered to assess their influence on microplastic generation. The study will also examine the relationship between pavement material properties and the release of microplastics into the surrounding environment. Comparative analyses will be performed to understand variations across different pavement structures.
The results obtained from this study are expected to provide valuable insights into the sources and behavior of microplastics in asphalt pavements. The findings will support the development of strategies to reduce microplastic pollution from road infrastructure and promote more sustainable pavement design and maintenance practices. Ultimately, this research will contribute to protecting environmental quality and public health while advancing knowledge in sustainable transportation infrastructure.