Ukrainian scientists to study Antarctic pollution by silicones

Ukrainian scientists will take part in a study of the possible spread of silicones in the Antarctic. This is reported by the National Antarctic Science Centre.

This is stipulated by a cooperation agreement signed between the NASS and Silicones Europe, a non-profit trade organisation representing the interests of the main producers of silicones in Europe," the statement said.

It is about the discovery of cyclic volatile methylsiloxanes. It is this group of silicone liquids that are often used in cosmetic products such as shampoos, hair conditioners, deodorants, as well as in chemical solvents, industrial cleaning fluids and the like.

Studying whether they are present in Antarctica will help to understand whether these silicones are transported by air and water masses over long distances.

As part of the project, samples are planned to be taken in the vicinity of Akademik Vernadsky station:

• Air, using special traps;
• Bottom sediments;
• Phytoplankton and krill in oceanic waters from onboard the "Noosphere";
• Antarctic soils and mosses.

Similar studies will also be conducted by the participants of the Polish Antarctic Programme near their station "Arztovsky".

It is planned that in May all samples will be sent to Norway. There scientists will analyse whether they contain certain silicone liquids and in what concentrations. By the end of 2024, preliminary research results should be available.