A simplified experimental method to estimate the transport of non-buoyant plastic particles due to waves by 2D image processing

A simplified experimental method to estimate the transport of non-buoyant plastic particles due to waves by 2D image processing

Plastic is one of the most widely used materials. It is expected by 2050 that there will be about 12 billion tons of debris dispersed into the environment. This, combined with marine littering, pollution and climate change will threaten our ability to sustainably use oceans, seas and coasts. In this regard, it is important to understand transport mechanisms and predict hotspots of plastic pollution. Physical models are a valid support to achieve such a goal. In this regard, it is necessary to adopt specific techniques which allow the movement of the plastic to be monitored. Considering the relatively high size of the plastic particle that could be used during experimental campaigns, new approaches based on image processing could be implemented. In our research, a simplified method to estimate the transport of particle debris under sea waves by 2D image processing is presented. The proposed method, based on the blob analysis, was implemented and calibrated within the wave flume of the Hydraulics Laboratory at the University of Messina. After a calibration process, the method was used to study the behaviour of the plastic debris under several hydrodynamic conditions. The results obtained in terms of displacement and velocity of the analysed sample showed a great reliability of the used methodology.

The goal of my research is to implement knowledge on the dynamics of plastics and micro plastics in the coastal area, under the effect of wave motion, under varying boundary conditions and sample characteristics.

Experimental laboratory tests and image analysis.