Oceans Water samples from various locations in the German Bight contained above all indicators for polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polymers known as acrylates, and polycarbonates. Their mass accounted for about two-thirds of the total microplastic content in the mean. Packaging plastics accounted for a much smaller percentage and were found mainly near the coastline, whereas in the open North Sea and in the Elbe estuary the other types of plastic were predominant. The scientists believe that these particles originate from ship coatings, where they are used as binders in acrylic paints or epoxy resins. Dibke, Christopher et al, Environmental ...