Scientists have identified surprisingly high levels of a little-known silicone pollutant in the atmosphere, raising new questions about possible risks to human health and the climate. The chemicals, known as methylsiloxanes, are commonly used in cosmetics, industrial products, transportation, and household items. Researchers found these compounds across a wide range of environments, from major cities to rural villages and forests.
The study was led by researchers from Utrecht University and the University of Groningen and published in the journal Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics.
Hidden Silicone Pollution Found Worldwide
Pollutants such as PFAS and microplastics are already known for their widespread presence in the environment. But methylsiloxanes, a class of water-repelling silicone compounds often used as lubricants, have received far less attention.
For years, scientists believed the methylsiloxanes detected in the atmosphere mainly came from evaporation from personal care products and industrial materials. More recently, however, researchers discovered that ships and motor vehicles release a different form of methylsiloxanes made up of much larger molecules that do not easily evaporate.
