Browsing by Author "Guevara Segarra, Paulina Soledad"

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    Análisis de la concentración de microplásticos en el aire de la Ciudad de Cuenca en una gradiente altitudinal
    (Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-02) Guevara Segarra, Paulina Soledad; Naranjo Asencio, Sofia Fernanda; Mejía Coronel, Julio Danilo
    Microplastics are widely distributed in natural environments, food, and the human body, representing a growing environmental and public health concern. In this context, the present study aimed to analyze the deposition rate of microplastics in the air of the city of Cuenca according to its altitudinal gradient. The research was descriptive in nature, with a non- experimental, cross-sectional, and correlational design, and a quantitative approach. Particle detection was carried out through the filtration of air samples, followed by visual identification under a stereomicroscope. Two independent replicates were collected at each of the 20 sampling points selected by convenience. The results show average microplastic deposition flux values (particles/m2·day) in 17 of the 20 evaluated sampling points (85%), demonstrating their presence at different altitudes throughout the city. No particles were recorded in the remaining 15% of the sampling points. Additionally, some locations with high deposition values also showed elevated levels of settleable particulate matter. Spearman’s correlation coefficient (ρ = 0.21) indicates a weak positive correlation between altitude and deposition rate, suggesting a slight increasing trend in microplastics with higher elevation. However, the low magnitude of the coefficient indicates that altitude is not the only factor influencing their distribution. In conclusion, the widespread presence of microplastics in the air of Cuenca is confirmed, constituting an environmental problem with potential implications for public health.