A pilot study by researchers at the University of Memphis has found that wearing polyester-containing T-shirts was associated with higher concentrations of airborne microplastics around participants’ breathing zones compared with wearing cotton shirts. The findings suggest that synthetic clothing may contribute to personal exposure to airborne microplastic particles.

The study, funded by the National Cotton Council’s Cotton Foundation, involved 10 participants who wore cotton and polyester-containing T-shirts during daytime activities. Researchers also collected 12-hour baseline air samples in participants’ bedrooms and used micro-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy to identify the size and chemical composition of airborne particles.

Preliminary measurements indicated that exposure was up to 42% higher when participants wore polyester T-shirts, with concentrations approaching 2,000 particles per cubic metre. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) was identified in 99% of the detected airborne microplastics.

Chunrong Jia, professor of environmental health at the University of Memphis, said the findings indicate that synthetic garments may be a source of microplastic particles in an individual’s immediate breathing zone. He added that although airborne microplastics are already present in indoor environments, clothing choices could influence the level of exposure. Given the small sample size and pilot nature of the research, further studies involving more participants will be needed to establish the extent of this relationship.