Abrasion chamber particle velocity data (particle sizes D50 157-681 microns)

Data relate to the velocities of particles achieved within a glass test-tube abrasion chamber. Particles are agitated by airflow in to the chamber. Particle median grain size (D50) ranged from 157 to 681 microns. Particle mass varied from 10 g to 100 g. Particle velocities were measured over a 2D vertical grid aligned through the long-axis of the chamber using a Dantec(TM) 2D Laser Doppler Anemometer mounted on a 2D programmable traverse. Data were collected to determine how particle velocities achieved within the chamber compared to those in natural saltation clouds.

This data is part of the project NE/X00015X/1: Microplastic entrainment, transport and fragmentation in atmospheric boundary-layer flows. The overall aim of this research is to understand the processes of microplastic entrainment and transport by wind and how these processes affect the material properties of microplastics. The knowledge gained will inform models for predicting land-atmosphere microplastic flux and distribution.