Collecting Microplastics with My Neptune Cylinders

Simulation Instructions

This simulation allows you to test the effectiveness of Neptune Cylinders designed to combat microplastic pollution in seas.

• Deploy Neptune Cylinders with the "Add Cylinder" option
• Place cylinders strategically
• Different microplastic types have different point values
• Note: Each cylinder has a plastic capacity. When full, it cannot capture new plastic.
• Time Limit: You must complete each level within a specific time.

Scientific Background

Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than 5 mm that pose a serious threat to marine ecosystems and human health.

Important Scientific Facts:

• 8 million tons of plastic waste enter the world's oceans annually
• Microplastics are formed from the breakdown of larger plastics or directly produced as microbeads
• Microplastics can bioaccumulate in the food chain and concentrate toxins

Microplastic Types and Sizes

• Microplastic (Small) - 1-5mm: Cosmetic products, industrial waste
• Microplastic (Medium) - 5-10mm: Plastic bottle breakdown, packaging waste
• Microplastic (Large) - 10-15mm: Fishing equipment, industrial raw materials
• Microfiber: Synthetic clothing, textile products
• Fragment: Breakdown of larger plastics

Placement Strategies

• Parallel Alignment: Placed perpendicular to the current. Suitable for covering wide areas.
• V-Shape Alignment: Angled placement that directs plastics to the center.
• Grid Alignment: Complex structure offering multiple capture opportunities.

Cylinder Types

• Standard Neptune Cylinder: Basic model, mid-level performance with all plastics.
• Single Neptune Cylinder: Economical, effective in small areas, successful with small plastics.
• Triple Neptune Cylinder: Mid-level, wide scanning area, effective with medium-sized plastics.
• Quintuple Neptune Cylinder: Premium model, maximum coverage area, effective with large plastics.
• Seagrass Fiber Cylinder: Specialized for microfibers and small plastics.
• Seagrass Leaf Cylinder: Effective with medium-sized plastics.
• Neptune Ball Cylinder: Ideal solution for large plastics.