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) and 3-step (2-step and enzymes) digestion techniques were assessed under different duration and temperature conditions. The results obtained for OM digestion with 2-step and 3-step techniques were satisfactory. Weight changes were registered for polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polystyrene foam, polyvinyl chloride, and polycarbonate with 2-step digestion, but with inconsistent values. Significant size changes were registered only for PET applying 2-step digestion techniques at 60 °C. Using 40 °C for 72 h prevailed all polymers from size changes. Polyethylene weathered MPs were also preserved, including an enzymatic step. Polymer fingerprints were not affected by any digestion technique. Based on these results, any method applying high temperatures will damage MPs.
Alfonso et al. (Thu,) studied this question.