Microplastic retention within infiltration basins used for managed aquifer recharge: Effectiveness and key controlling factors.

Infiltration basins reduce microplastic concentrations by 70% from surface to deep sediments, demonstrating effective retention within aquifer recharge systems.

• Why it matters: Protecting groundwater from emerging pollutants like microplastics is crucial for environmental health, yet their retention mechanisms in recharge systems are poorly understood.
• What they did: The study analyzed sediments from 11 infiltration basins, measuring microplastic abundance, size, polymer type, and sediment characteristics, alongside basin management data.
• The result: Findings reveal sediment depth and hydrological conditions significantly influence microplastic retention, emphasizing the water-sediment interface's role in safeguarding groundwater from particulate pollution.