German Company Targets Microplastic Pollution

Why this is here: Roughly one-quarter of all microplastics in Germany originates from tire abrasion—falling directly within the scope of 3P Technik’s new sedimentation systems.

3P Technik, a company from Bad Überkingen, Germany, is developing sedimentation systems to capture microplastics. The firm specializes in rainwater treatment and has expanded its focus to parking lots, roads, and highways. CEO Thomas Zepf believes this technology can significantly reduce microplastic entering waterways.

The system combines sedimentation—allowing particles to settle—with a skimming process to remove surface contaminants. Recent testing by the Institute for Subterranean Infrastructure in Gelsenkirchen showed the system captures 99% of sand-gravel mixtures, suspended solids, polyethylene, and polyester. However, capturing tire wear particles proves more difficult, achieving only about 86% removal due to their size and behavior in water.

3P Technik will present the technology at the IFAT environmental trade fair. The company plans to work with planners and approval authorities to equip hundreds of outflow points to comply with the European Union’s Water Framework Directive, which aims to improve water quality by 2027.

While filtration systems also remove microplastics, they require more maintenance due to clogging. Further research is needed, as only 42% of EU waters currently meet ecological and chemical standards.