When nanoplastics are not what they seem: Release of oligomers from polyester textiles

Plastic household items and clothing made of synthetic fibers release microplastics, particles less than five millimeters in size that can enter the environment unnoticed. A small proportion of these particles are so small that they are measured in nanometers. Such nanoplastics are the subject of intensive research, as nanoplastic particles can be absorbed into the human body due to their small size—but, as of today, little is known about their potential toxicity.