nantong mircoplastics

This database includes microplastic samples collected using the beaker method and leaf method for different seasons of summer and autumn in 2023-2024, covering 3 functional areas and 9 sampling points. The characteristics of microplastics include color, size, shape, and settling flux. This database analyzed the spatiotemporal distribution of atmospheric microplastics and precipitation-driven transport mechanisms in Nantong, China, revealing migration patterns in urban ecosystems. Key results: 1) Significant spatial differences existed: urban residential areas had the highest beaker-based deposition flux, industrial chemical parks the highest leaf deposition flux, both lower in green spaces. Variations reflected human activity intensity, microplastic properties, and vegetative retention. 2) Precipitation intensity governed seasonal flux fluctuations via flushing efficiency and particle resuspension. 3) Leaves retained fibrous microplastics more effectively than beakers, with surface microstructures (trichomes, cuticular wax) and electrostatic adsorption as key mechanisms. Leaves held 2.7-fold more large particles (>100 μm), while beakers favored smaller suspended particles, showing size sorting in passive sampling. The study illuminates atmospheric microplastic dynamics in urban areas, underscoring functional zones and seasons in their distribution.