A research study submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master in Marine Plastics Abatement

Research studies project report (M.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 2021

The accomplishment of this research study would not have been possible without the support of many people. First and foremost, I would like to express my gratitude to the Japan Government for providing me with the opportunity to study at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT). Specially, I would like to acknowledge Dr. Ekbordin Winjikul, my advisor, for his invaluable advice, insightful suggestions, and unwavering encouragement. Furthermore, despite his busy schedules, I can always reach him in some way if I have concerns or queries concerning my studies. He let me build my thesis entirely on my own ideas and approaches, but he guided me in the proper direction whenever I encountered an obstacle. In addition, I'd like to express my gratitude to the professionals who participated in the validation of this study: Prof. Nguyen Thi Kim Oanh and Dr. Tatchai Pussayanavin. They not only helped with the validation process, but they also provided me with great insights and recommendations that I will use in future projects. The validation would not have been possible without their active participation. Special thanks to every secretary and staff of EEM and MPA, Ms. Suchitra, Ms. Chanya, Mr. Chaiyaporn, Ms. Tawanchai, Mr. Thusitha, and Mr. Panupong for their intelligent recommendations and valuable help during this research project. Finally, I would want to express my gratitude to my family, my wife Nguyen Thuy Trang, and fellow classmates from the Program, Ms. Sayaka Ono, Ms. Suttida Kerdsuppachai, Mr. Alvern Tesorero, Ms. Soklin Meng, Ms. Yin Nyein Myat, Ms. Arisara Pittayayon, to whom I owe the greatest debt and to whom I devote my work. They've always been an inspiration to me, and this thesis is my way of thanking them for their unwavering love and support.