Potential of micro glass/nano glass/fibreglass as pollutants species in environmental matrices

Abstract

Glass‑derived particulates, specifically micro-glass, nano-glass, and fibreglass fragments, are increasingly recognised as environmental co‑pollutants alongside other pollutants, such as microplastics, due to their widespread industrial use. Despite their growing prevalence in air, water, soil, and waste-stream samples, these particles remain significantly understudied relative to microplastics and engineered nanomaterials. Their detection is particularly challenging because their morphology and chemistry closely resemble those of naturally occurring silicates, leading to analytical uncertainty and inconsistent detection. This review consolidates current knowledge on the environmental occurrence, physicochemical behaviour, toxicological implications, and co‑pollutant interactions of glass‑based particulates. Focus is given to evaluating analytical methods, i.e., microscopy, spectroscopy, elemental analyses, and, among others, to assess their strengths, limitations, and suitability for detecting diverse particle types across complex environmental matrices. A general observation is that no single technique is sufficient for reliable quantification, and that an integrated, multifaceted approach is essential for accurate characterisation. Overall, the review identifies critical knowledge gaps, including the absence of standardised analytical protocols, limited environmental monitoring data, and minimal long-term toxicological studies. These gaps underscore the urgent need for harmonised methods and interdisciplinary research to enable risk assessment that supports the development of regulatory frameworks to address glass‑based particulate pollution.