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Martin J, Lusher AL, Nixon FC. A review of the use of microplastics in reconstructing dated sedimentary archives. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 806:150818. [PMID: 34637878 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.150818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Buried microplastics (plastics, <5 mm) have been documented within the sediment column of both marine and lacustrine environments. However, the number of peer-review studies published on the subject remains limited and confidence in data reliability varies considerably. Here we critically review the state of the literature on microplastic loading inventories in dated sedimentary and soil profiles. We conclude that microplastics are being sequestered across a variety of sedimentary environments globally, at a seemingly increasing rate. However, microplastics are also readily mobilised both within depositional settings and the workplace. Microplastics are commonly reported from sediments dated to before the onset of plastic production and researcher-derived microplastics frequently contaminate samples. Additionally, the diversity of microplastic types and issues of constraining source points has so far hindered interpretation of depositional settings. Therefore, further research utilizing high quality data sets, greater levels of reporting transparency, and well-established methodologies from the geosciences will be required for any validation of microplastics as a sediment dating method or in quantifying temporally resolved microplastic loading inventories in sedimentary sinks with confidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jake Martin
- Department of Geography, Faculty of Social and Educational Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Norway.
| | - Amy L Lusher
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research, Oslo, Norway; Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Francis Chantel Nixon
- Department of Geography, Faculty of Social and Educational Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Norway
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52
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Way C, Hudson MD, Williams ID, Langley GJ. Evidence of underestimation in microplastic research: A meta-analysis of recovery rate studies. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 805:150227. [PMID: 34537704 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.150227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Research on microplastics in the environment is of high interest to many scientists and industries globally. Key to the success of this research is the accuracy, efficiency, reliability, robustness and repeatability of the method(s) used to isolate the microplastics from environmental media. However, with microplastics now being found in new complex media, many multifaceted methods have been developed to research the quantities of these pollutants. To validate new methods, recovery studies can be undertaken by spiking the test medium with known quantities of plastics. The method is typically run as normal, and the recovered plastics counted to give a recovery rate. A current issue in this field is that methods are rarely or poorly validated in this way. Here, we conducted a meta-analysis on 71 recovery rate studies. We found sediment was the most studied medium and saline solutions were the most used reagents. Polyethylene and polystyrene were the most used spiking polymers, which is relevant to the most common polymers in the environment. We found that recovery rates were highest from plant material, whole organisms and excrement (>88%), and lowest from fishmeal, water and soil (58-71%). Moreover, all reagents but water were able to recover more than 80% of the spiked plastics. We believe we are the first (to our knowledge) to provide an overarching indication for the underestimation of microplastics in the environment of approximately 14% across the studies we reviewed, varying with the methods used. Furthermore, we recommend that the quality, use and reporting of recovery rate studies should be improved to aid the standardisation and replication of microplastic research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe Way
- Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield Campus, University Road, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom.
| | - Malcolm D Hudson
- Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield Campus, University Road, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom.
| | - Ian D Williams
- Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield Campus, University Road, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom.
| | - G John Langley
- School of Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield Campus, University Road, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom.
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53
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Cashman MA, Langknecht T, El Khatib D, Burgess RM, Boving TB, Robinson S, Ho KT. Quantification of microplastics in sediments from Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island USA using a novel isolation and extraction method. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 174:113254. [PMID: 34923404 PMCID: PMC9019827 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.113254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are small plastic particles found ubiquitously in marine environments. In this study, a hybridized method was developed for the extraction of microplastics (45-1000 μm) from sediments using sodium bromide solution for density separation. Method development was tested using spiked microplastics as internal standards. The method was then used to extract microplastics from sediments in Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island, USA. Suspect microplastics were analyzed with Raman spectroscopy. Microplastic abundance ranged from 40 particles/100 g sediment to 4.6 million particles/100 g sediment (wet weight). Cellulose acetate fibers were the most abundant microplastic. These results are some of the first data for microplastics in Rhode Island sediments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela A Cashman
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, ORD/CEMM Atlantic Coastal Environmental Sciences Division, 27 Tarzwell Drive, Narragansett, RI 02882, USA; University of Rhode Island, Department of Geosciences, 9 E Alumni Avenue, Kingston, RI 02881, USA.
| | - Troy Langknecht
- Oak Ridge Institute of Science Education, c/o U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, ORD/CEMM Atlantic Coastal Environmental Sciences Division, 27 Tarzwell Drive, Narragansett, RI 02882, USA
| | - Dounia El Khatib
- Oak Ridge Institute of Science Education, c/o U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, ORD/CEMM Atlantic Coastal Environmental Sciences Division, 27 Tarzwell Drive, Narragansett, RI 02882, USA
| | - Robert M Burgess
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, ORD/CEMM Atlantic Coastal Environmental Sciences Division, 27 Tarzwell Drive, Narragansett, RI 02882, USA
| | - Thomas B Boving
- University of Rhode Island, Department of Geosciences, 9 E Alumni Avenue, Kingston, RI 02881, USA; University of Rhode Island, Department of Civil Engineering, 9 E Alumni Avenue, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Sandra Robinson
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, ORD/CEMM Atlantic Coastal Environmental Sciences Division, 27 Tarzwell Drive, Narragansett, RI 02882, USA
| | - Kay T Ho
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, ORD/CEMM Atlantic Coastal Environmental Sciences Division, 27 Tarzwell Drive, Narragansett, RI 02882, USA
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54
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Rist S, Hartmann NB, Welden NAC. How fast, how far: Diversification and adoption of novel methods in aquatic microplastic monitoring. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 291:118174. [PMID: 34583265 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.118174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Since 2004, there has been a marked diversification in the methods used to determine aquatic microplastic (MP) concentrations. Despite calls for a unified approach to MP sampling, the proliferation of new methods has accelerated in recent years. Both minor method adaptations and entirely novel approaches have been introduced to overcome barriers to reliable MP sampling, extraction and quantification, resulting in a variety of complimentary but also competing approaches. However, there is little clarity regarding the extent to which new methods are acknowledged and adopted, or of the apparent drivers of, as well as barriers to, said adoption. To explore these issues, the rate of method diversification was examined in a systematic review. The rate and degree of diversification were determined by scoring each method by its "degree of novelty": highly novel methods, secondary adaptations of existing methods and smaller, tertiary adaptations of existing methods. This analysis revealed that the rate of method diversification has been greatest since 2011. Our results indicate limited use of these novel methods and adaptations in the subsequent literature, with many researchers falling back on methods that are well established in the existing literature. Importantly, there is little consistency in the units used when reporting MP concentrations. However, these differences are seldom driven by method selection and are rather the result of discrepancies between researchers. Thus, in understanding the requirements of comparability and consistent reporting for monitoring purposes, we can apply a diverse approach to sampling whilst maintaining the applicability and usefulness of the resulting data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sinja Rist
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark; National Institute of Aquatic Resources, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Nanna B Hartmann
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Natalie A C Welden
- School of Interdisciplinary Studies, University of Glasgow, Dumfries, Great Britain, United Kingdom.
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55
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Da Costa Filho PA, Andrey D, Eriksen B, Peixoto RP, Carreres BM, Ambühl ME, Descarrega JB, Dubascoux S, Zbinden P, Panchaud A, Poitevin E. Detection and characterization of small-sized microplastics (≥ 5 µm) in milk products. Sci Rep 2021; 11:24046. [PMID: 34911996 PMCID: PMC8674347 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-03458-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have gained a high degree of public interest since they are associated with the global release of plastics into the environment. Various studies have confirmed the presence of MPs throughout the food chain. However, information on the ingestion of MPs via the consumption of many commonly consumed foods like dairy products are scarce due to the lack of studies investigating the "contamination" of this food group by MPs. This lack of occurrence data is mainly due to the absence of robust analytical methods capable of reliably quantifying MPs with size < 20 µm in foods. In this work, a new methodology was developed to accurately determine and characterize MPs in milk-based products using micro-Raman (μRaman) technology, entailing combined enzymatic and chemical digestion steps. This is the first time that the presence of relatively low amounts of small-sized MP (≥ 5 µm) have been reported in raw milk collected at farm just after the milking machine and in some processed commercial liquid and powdered cow's milk products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulo A Da Costa Filho
- Société des Produits Nestlé S.A. Nestlé Research, Route du Jorat 57, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Daniel Andrey
- Société des Produits Nestlé S.A. Nestlé Research, Route du Jorat 57, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Bjorn Eriksen
- Société des Produits Nestlé S.A. Nestlé Research, Route du Jorat 57, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Rafael P Peixoto
- Société des Produits Nestlé S.A. Nestlé Research, Route du Jorat 57, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Benoit M Carreres
- Société des Produits Nestlé S.A. Nestlé Research, Route du Jorat 57, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Mark E Ambühl
- Société des Produits Nestlé S.A. Nestlé Research, Route du Jorat 57, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Josep B Descarrega
- Société des Produits Nestlé S.A. Nestlé Research, Route du Jorat 57, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Stephane Dubascoux
- Société des Produits Nestlé S.A. Nestlé Research, Route du Jorat 57, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Pascal Zbinden
- Société des Produits Nestlé S.A. Nestlé Research, Route du Jorat 57, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Alexandre Panchaud
- Société des Produits Nestlé S.A. Nestlé Research, Route du Jorat 57, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Eric Poitevin
- Société des Produits Nestlé S.A. Nestlé Research, Route du Jorat 57, Lausanne, Switzerland
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56
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Bronzo L, Lusher AL, Schøyen M, Morigi C. Accumulation and distribution of microplastics in coastal sediments from the inner Oslofjord, Norway. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 173:113076. [PMID: 34743071 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.113076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic presence in benthic marine systems is a widely discussed topic. The influence of the natural matrix on microplastic distribution within the sedimentary matrix is often overlooked. Marine sediments from the western inner Oslofjord, Norway, were investigated for temporal trends, with a particular focus on the relationship between sediment grain-sizes and microplastic distribution. Density separation, optical microscopy and chemical validation were used to categorize microplastics. Microplastic concentrations ranged from 0.02 to 1.71 MPs g -1 dry weight (dw). Fibres were the most common (76%), followed by fragments and films (18%, 6%). Common polymers were polyesters (50%), polypropylene (18%), polymethylmethacrylate (9%), rayon and viscose (5%) and elastane (4%). Microplastics appear to accumulate preferentially according to their morphology and polymer type in certain sediment grain-sizes. Microplastics inputs to the Oslofjord appear to derive from a wastewater treatment plant in the vicinity. Although, the redistribution of microplastics within the fjord needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Bronzo
- University of Pisa, Earth Sciences Department, Via Santa Maria 53, 56126, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Via Cesare Battisti 53, 56125 Pisa, Italy
| | - Amy L Lusher
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA), Økernveien 94, 0579 Oslo, Norway; Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Thormøhlens gate 53 A/B, 5020 Bergen, Norway
| | - Merete Schøyen
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA), Økernveien 94, 0579 Oslo, Norway
| | - Caterina Morigi
- University of Pisa, Earth Sciences Department, Via Santa Maria 53, 56126, Italy.
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57
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Alfonso MB, Takashima K, Yamaguchi S, Tanaka M, Isobe A. Microplastics on plankton samples: Multiple digestion techniques assessment based on weight, size, and FTIR spectroscopy analyses. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 173:113027. [PMID: 34627037 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.113027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Digestion protocols are needed to determine microplastics abundance and features. This study assessed the organic matter (OM) digestion efficiency on plankton samples and the MPs' weight, size, and polymer changes under different digestion techniques. For this, 2-step (KOH and H2O2 + Fe2+) and 3-step (2-step and enzymes) digestion techniques were assessed under different duration and temperature conditions. The results obtained for OM digestion with 2-step and 3-step techniques were satisfactory. Weight changes were registered for polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polystyrene foam, polyvinyl chloride, and polycarbonate with 2-step digestion, but with inconsistent values. Significant size changes were registered only for PET applying 2-step digestion techniques at 60 °C. Using 40 °C for 72 h prevailed all polymers from size changes. Polyethylene weathered MPs were also preserved, including an enzymatic step. Polymer fingerprints were not affected by any digestion technique. Based on these results, any method applying high temperatures will damage MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- María B Alfonso
- Research Institute for Applied Mechanics, Kyushu University, 6-1 Kasuga-Koen, Kasuga 816-8580, Japan; Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO-CONICET-UNS), Bahía Blanca, Argentina, Florida 8000, Complejo CCT CONICET Bahía Blanca, Edificio E1, B8000BFW, Bahía Blanca, Argentina.
| | - Kayoko Takashima
- Research Institute for Applied Mechanics, Kyushu University, 6-1 Kasuga-Koen, Kasuga 816-8580, Japan
| | - Sayaka Yamaguchi
- Research Institute for Applied Mechanics, Kyushu University, 6-1 Kasuga-Koen, Kasuga 816-8580, Japan
| | - Mie Tanaka
- Research Institute for Applied Mechanics, Kyushu University, 6-1 Kasuga-Koen, Kasuga 816-8580, Japan
| | - Atsuhiko Isobe
- Research Institute for Applied Mechanics, Kyushu University, 6-1 Kasuga-Koen, Kasuga 816-8580, Japan
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58
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Halbach M, Baensch C, Dirksen S, Scholz-Böttcher BM. Microplastic extraction from sediments established? - A critical evaluation from a trace recovery experiment with a custom-made density separator. ANALYTICAL METHODS : ADVANCING METHODS AND APPLICATIONS 2021; 13:5299-5308. [PMID: 34709249 DOI: 10.1039/d1ay00983d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
By now, microplastics are present in every environmental compartment of which sediments are considered one major sink. As a result, several approaches for their enrichment from sediments have been established in microplastic analysis. At the same time, the smaller microplastics gained increasing attention regarding their ecotoxicological relevance. A customized sediment separator was evaluated with trace amounts of small microplastic particles (150-300 μm) of the nine most common polymers. Separation was performed with sodium bromide (ρ = 1.5 g cm-3). The experimental recovery comprises pristine as well as incubated polymers to include early biofouling effects. Polymer quantification was achieved exclusively using pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The results reflected an overall mean recovery of 65%. Interestingly, the observed behaviour seems to be density related. While polymers of higher densities revealed higher average extraction efficiencies (74-97%), those of less dense polymers are reduced and span between 34 and 65%. These observations hypothesize possible polarity related surface interactions as a relevant factor for microplastic particle extraction. In contrast, the density of the separation fluid seemed to be of subordinate relevance, if small microplastic particles were extracted in trace amounts. Early biofouling enhanced recoveries of some polar polymers, whereas the effect on apolar polymers was even negative in some cases. In a comparative synopsis with other published density separation approaches, a limited number of comparable experimental setups concerning particle size, polymer density range and polymer concentration were revealed. Nonetheless, some related experiments point to similar density/polarity driven extraction behaviour. In conclusion, the presented study suggests a re-evaluation of current separation approaches for extraction of low number/mass concentrations of small microplastics from sediments to enable a more comprehensive insight into factors that influence surface properties for microplastics extraction. Concurrently, it raises the question of how an ideal environment relevant recovery experiment can be designed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurits Halbach
- Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment (ICBM), Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, P. O. Box 2503, D-26111 Oldenburg, Germany.
| | - Christin Baensch
- Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment (ICBM), Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, P. O. Box 2503, D-26111 Oldenburg, Germany.
| | - Sonka Dirksen
- Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment (ICBM), Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, P. O. Box 2503, D-26111 Oldenburg, Germany.
| | - Barbara M Scholz-Böttcher
- Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment (ICBM), Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, P. O. Box 2503, D-26111 Oldenburg, Germany.
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59
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Nalbone L, Panebianco A, Giarratana F, Russell M. Nile Red staining for detecting microplastics in biota: Preliminary evidence. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 172:112888. [PMID: 34454386 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Nile Red is a lipophilic, metachromatic and solvatochromic dye used as an alternative or complementary method to aid identification of microplastics in routine analysis of biological samples. It was rarely used in biota since organic residues after the digestion step can be co-stained with possible overestimation of microplastics. The limits of using Nile Red in biota were investigated in marine mussels experimentally contaminated with low-density polyethylene (LDPE) microplastics. Stained particles were detected through magnified images obtained by stitching together thirty photographs of the filter surface of each sample. LDPE particles appeared yellowish and fluorescent and could be confused with certain organic residues. The smaller the fragments, the greater the difficulty in recognizing them. In particular, it was difficult to recognize LDPE particles based on their fluorescence if <180 μm in size. Regardless of the size, fluorescence of the items aids the operator in LDPE particles identification also in biota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Nalbone
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Messina, Polo Universitario della Annunziata, 98168, Italy.
| | - Antonio Panebianco
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Messina, Polo Universitario della Annunziata, 98168, Italy
| | - Filippo Giarratana
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Messina, Polo Universitario della Annunziata, 98168, Italy
| | - Marie Russell
- Marine Scotland Science Marine Laboratory, 375 Victoria Road, Aberdeen AB11 9DB, Scotland, UK
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60
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Ivleva NP. Chemical Analysis of Microplastics and Nanoplastics: Challenges, Advanced Methods, and Perspectives. Chem Rev 2021; 121:11886-11936. [PMID: 34436873 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.1c00178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 245] [Impact Index Per Article: 81.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Microplastics and nanoplastics have become emerging particulate anthropogenic pollutants and rapidly turned into a field of growing scientific and public interest. These tiny plastic particles are found in the environment all around the globe as well as in drinking water and food, raising concerns about their impacts on the environment and human health. To adequately address these issues, reliable information on the ambient concentrations of microplastics and nanoplastics is needed. However, micro- and nanoplastic particles are extremely complex and diverse in terms of their size, shape, density, polymer type, surface properties, etc. While the particle concentrations in different media can vary by up to 10 orders of magnitude, analysis of such complex samples may resemble searching for a needle in a haystack. This highlights the critical importance of appropriate methods for the chemical identification, quantification, and characterization of microplastics and nanoplastics. The present article reviews advanced methods for the representative mass-based and particle-based analysis of microplastics, with a focus on the sensitivity and lower-size limit for detection. The advantages and limitations of the methods, and their complementarity for the comprehensive characterization of microplastics are discussed. A special attention is paid to the approaches for reliable analysis of nanoplastics. Finally, an outlook for establishing harmonized and standardized methods to analyze these challenging contaminants is presented, and perspectives within and beyond this research field are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia P Ivleva
- Institute of Hydrochemistry, Chair of Analytical Chemistry and Water Chemistry, Technical University of Munich, Elisabeth-Winterhalter-Weg 6, 81377 Munich, Germany
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61
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Review of Microplastic Distribution, Toxicity, Analysis Methods, and Removal Technologies. WATER 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/w13192736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Microplastic contamination has become a problem, as plastic production has increased worldwide. Microplastics are plastics with particles of less than 5 mm and are absorbed through soil, water, atmosphere, and living organisms and finally affect human health. However, information on the distribution, toxicity, analytical methods, and removal techniques for microplastics is insufficient. For clear microplastic analytical methods and removal technologies, this article includes the following: (1) The distribution and contamination pathways of microplastics worldwide are reviewed. (2) The health effects and toxicity of microplastics were researched. (3) The sampling, pretreatment, and analytical methods of microplastics were all reviewed through various related articles. (4) The various removal techniques of microplastics were categorized by wastewater treatment process, physical treatment, chemical treatment, and biological treatment. This paper will be of great help to microplastic analysis and removal techniques.
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62
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Kallenbach EMF, Hurley RR, Lusher A, Friberg N. Chitinase digestion for the analysis of microplastics in chitinaceous organisms using the terrestrial isopod Oniscus asellus L. as a model organism. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 786:147455. [PMID: 33964777 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.147455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Chitinaceous organisms have been found to ingest microplastic; however, a standardised, validated, and time- and cost-efficient method for dissolving these organisms without affecting microplastic particles is still required. This study tested four protocols for dissolving organisms with a chitin exoskeleton: 1) potassium hydroxide (KOH) + chitinase, 2) Creon® + chitinase, 3) hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) + chitinase, and, 4) Nitric Acid (HNO3) + hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The effects on microplastics composed of eight different polymers were also tested. The use of H2O2 followed by chitinase was found to be a highly efficient method. The three other protocols either did not digest the chitin sufficiently or negatively affected the tested polymers. A recovery test using microplastic fibres, beads and tyre particles revealed high recovery rates of 0.85, 0.89 and 1 respectively. This further supported the applicability of the H2O2 and chitinase (protocol 3) for dissolving chitinaceous organisms. Thus, we recommend that future investigations of microplastic (0.05 μm-5000 μm) in chitinaceous organisms (0.3 cm-5 cm) utilise the here presented methodology. This represents an important component of the ongoing validation and harmonization of methodological approaches that are urgently needed for the advancement of microplastic assessments globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie M F Kallenbach
- NIVA Denmark Water Research, Njalsgade 76, 2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark; University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 4, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark.
| | | | - Amy Lusher
- NIVA, Gaustadalléen 21, 0349 Oslo, Norway; Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, 5020 Bergen, Norway.
| | - Nikolai Friberg
- NIVA Denmark Water Research, Njalsgade 76, 2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark; University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 4, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark; NIVA, Gaustadalléen 21, 0349 Oslo, Norway.
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63
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Prihandari R, Karnpanit W, Kittibunchakul S, Kemsawasd V. Development of Optimal Digesting Conditions for Microplastic Analysis in Dried Seaweed Gracilaria fisheri. Foods 2021; 10:foods10092118. [PMID: 34574228 PMCID: PMC8467988 DOI: 10.3390/foods10092118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, research on the accumulation of microplastics (MPs) in the marine food web is being highlighted. An accurate and reliable digestion method to extract and isolate MPs from complex food matrices has seldom been validated. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of MP isolation among enzymatic-, oxidative-, and the combination of two digestion methods on red seaweed, Gracilaria fisheri. The dried seaweed sample was digested using three different methods under various conditions using enzymes (cellulase and protease), 30% H2O2, and a combination of enzymes and 30% H2O2. The method possessing the best digestion efficiency and polymer recovery rate of MPs was selected, and its effect on spiked plastic polymer integrity was analyzed by Raman spectroscopy. As a result, the enzymatic method rendered moderate digestion efficiency (59.3–63.7%) and high polymer recovery rate (94.7–98.9%). The oxidative method using 30% H2O2 showed high digestion efficiency (93.0–96.3%) and high polymer recovery rate (>98%). The combination method was the most effective method in terms of digestion efficiency, polymer recovery rate, and expenditure of digestion time. The method also showed no chemical changes in the spiked plastic polymers (PE, PP, PS, PVC, and PET) after the digestion process. All the spiked plastic polymers were identifiable using Raman spectroscopy.
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64
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Schymanski D, Oßmann BE, Benismail N, Boukerma K, Dallmann G, von der Esch E, Fischer D, Fischer F, Gilliland D, Glas K, Hofmann T, Käppler A, Lacorte S, Marco J, Rakwe ME, Weisser J, Witzig C, Zumbülte N, Ivleva NP. Analysis of microplastics in drinking water and other clean water samples with micro-Raman and micro-infrared spectroscopy: minimum requirements and best practice guidelines. Anal Bioanal Chem 2021; 413:5969-5994. [PMID: 34283280 PMCID: PMC8440246 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-021-03498-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are a widespread contaminant found not only in various natural habitats but also in drinking waters. With spectroscopic methods, the polymer type, number, size, and size distribution as well as the shape of microplastic particles in waters can be determined, which is of great relevance to toxicological studies. Methods used in studies so far show a huge diversity regarding experimental setups and often a lack of certain quality assurance aspects. To overcome these problems, this critical review and consensus paper of 12 European analytical laboratories and institutions, dealing with microplastic particle identification and quantification with spectroscopic methods, gives guidance toward harmonized microplastic particle analysis in clean waters. The aims of this paper are to (i) improve the reliability of microplastic analysis, (ii) facilitate and improve the planning of sample preparation and microplastic detection, and (iii) provide a better understanding regarding the evaluation of already existing studies. With these aims, we hope to make an important step toward harmonization of microplastic particle analysis in clean water samples and, thus, allow the comparability of results obtained in different studies by using similar or harmonized methods. Clean water samples, for the purpose of this paper, are considered to comprise all water samples with low matrix content, in particular drinking, tap, and bottled water, but also other water types such as clean freshwater.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darena Schymanski
- Chemical and Veterinary Analytical Institute Münsterland-Emscher-Lippe (CVUA-MEL), Joseph-König-Straße 40, 48147, Münster, Germany.,Institute of Food Chemistry, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Corrensstr. 45, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Barbara E Oßmann
- Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Eggenreuther Weg 43, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Nizar Benismail
- Nestle Quality Assurance Center Vittel, 1020 Avenue Georges Clemenceau, 88800, Vittel, France
| | | | - Gerald Dallmann
- SGS Institut Fresenius GmbH, Königsbrücker Landstr. 161, 01109, Dresden, Germany
| | - Elisabeth von der Esch
- Institute of Hydrochemistry, Chair of Analytical Chemistry and Water Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Munich, Elisabeth-Winterhalter-Weg 6, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Dieter Fischer
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden (IPF), Hohe Straße 6, 01069, Dresden, Germany
| | - Franziska Fischer
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden (IPF), Hohe Straße 6, 01069, Dresden, Germany
| | - Douglas Gilliland
- Joint Research Centre (JRC), European Commission, 21027, Ispra, Italy
| | - Karl Glas
- Chair of Food Chemistry and Molecular Sensory Science, Technical University of Munich, Lise-Meitner-Straße 34, 85354, Freising, Germany
| | - Thomas Hofmann
- Chair of Food Chemistry and Molecular Sensory Science, Technical University of Munich, Lise-Meitner-Straße 34, 85354, Freising, Germany
| | - Andrea Käppler
- SGS Institut Fresenius GmbH, Königsbrücker Landstr. 161, 01109, Dresden, Germany
| | - Sílvia Lacorte
- Department of Environmental Chemistry, IDAEA-CSIC, Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Julie Marco
- Danone Waters, 11 Avenue du Général Dupas, 74500, Evian les Bains, France
| | | | - Jana Weisser
- Chair of Food Chemistry and Molecular Sensory Science, Technical University of Munich, Lise-Meitner-Straße 34, 85354, Freising, Germany
| | - Cordula Witzig
- TZW: DVGW-Technologiezentrum Wasser (German Water Centre), Karlsruher Straße 84, 76139, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Nicole Zumbülte
- TZW: DVGW-Technologiezentrum Wasser (German Water Centre), Karlsruher Straße 84, 76139, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Natalia P Ivleva
- Institute of Hydrochemistry, Chair of Analytical Chemistry and Water Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Munich, Elisabeth-Winterhalter-Weg 6, 81377, Munich, Germany.
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Argeswara J, Hendrawan IG, Dharma IGBS, Germanov E. What's in the soup? Visual characterization and polymer analysis of microplastics from an Indonesian manta ray feeding ground. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 168:112427. [PMID: 33984577 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Plastics in marine environments vary in their physical and chemical properties, influencing their risk to biota once ingested. Manta rays are large filter-feeders that ingest plastics. To assess this risk, we characterized the plastics in a critical feeding habitat off Nusa Penida, Indonesia. We examined the color and polymer composition of sampled small-sized plastics (<30 mm). Plastics were mostly secondary microplastics and transparent (46%), white/off-white (24%), and blue/green (22%). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy of plastics grouped according to type (films, fragments, foam, or lines) and color indicated that most plastics were polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP) (99%), with the remainder polystyrene and polyester. Visual characterization aligned with single polymer composition in seven out of ten groups. Although PE and PP have relatively low toxicity compared to other plastics, their composing monomers and associated pollutants and microbes are of concern to manta rays and other marine biota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janis Argeswara
- Udayana University, Bali, Indonesia; Marine Megafauna Foundation, Truckee, CA, United States.
| | | | | | - Elitza Germanov
- Marine Megafauna Foundation, Truckee, CA, United States; Environmental and Conservation Sciences, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia; Aquatic Megafauna Research Unit, Centre for Sustainable Aquatic Ecosystems, Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
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66
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Cunsolo S, Williams J, Hale M, Read DS, Couceiro F. Optimising sample preparation for FTIR-based microplastic analysis in wastewater and sludge samples: multiple digestions. Anal Bioanal Chem 2021; 413:3789-3799. [PMID: 33890119 PMCID: PMC8141486 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-021-03331-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The lack of standardised methodologies in microplastic research has been addressed in recent years as it hampers the comparison of results across studies. The quantification of microplastics in the environment is key to the assessment of the potential eco-toxicological impacts that this new category of emerging pollutants could have on terrestrial and aquatic species. Therefore, the need for protocols that are robust, simple and reliable together with their standardisation are of crucial importance. This study has focused on removal of organic matter with Fenton reagent from wastewater and sludge samples. This step of analysis was optimised by implementing a multi-digestion treatment on these samples that have high concentration of complex mixtures of organic matter, which interfere with microplastic enumeration. Moreover, this study targeted the detection of microplastics in the sub-hundred-micron size range due to the potential higher risks associated with smaller-sized particles and the limited data available from previous wastewater research. To show the validity of the method, triplicate samples of raw sewage, final effluent and sludge were independently spiked with two different sizes and types of microplastic polymers. Due to the various analytical stages required for the isolation of microplastics, time is a limiting factor in sample processing. The sequential digestion with Fenton reagent represents an inexpensive and time-efficient procedure for wastewater research providing effective degradation of organic material. These advantages over other currently available methods mean the method is suitable for analysis of large numbers of samples allowing robust monitoring data sets to be generated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Cunsolo
- School of Civil Engineering and Surveying, Faculty of Technology, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, PO1 3AH, UK.
| | - John Williams
- School of Civil Engineering and Surveying, Faculty of Technology, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, PO1 3AH, UK
| | - Michelle Hale
- School of the Environment Geography and Geosciences, Faculty of Science and Health, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, PO1 3QL, UK
| | - Daniel S Read
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Wallingford, OX10 8BB, UK
| | - Fay Couceiro
- School of Civil Engineering and Surveying, Faculty of Technology, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, PO1 3AH, UK
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Simultaneous determination of N-methyl carbamate residues in pork tissues based on ultrasound assisted QuEChERS-dSPE extraction followed by reversed phase LC-FLD analysis. Lebensm Wiss Technol 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lwt.2021.111199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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68
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Primpke S, Christiansen SH, Cowger W, De Frond H, Deshpande A, Fischer M, Holland EB, Meyns M, O'Donnell BA, Ossmann BE, Pittroff M, Sarau G, Scholz-Böttcher BM, Wiggin KJ. Critical Assessment of Analytical Methods for the Harmonized and Cost-Efficient Analysis of Microplastics. APPLIED SPECTROSCOPY 2020; 74:1012-1047. [PMID: 32249594 DOI: 10.1177/0003702820921465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are of major concerns for society and is currently in the focus of legislators and administrations. A small number of measures to reduce or remove primary sources of microplastics to the environment are currently coming into effect. At the moment, they have not yet tackled important topics such as food safety. However, recent developments such as the 2018 bill in California are requesting the analysis of microplastics in drinking water by standardized operational protocols. Administrations and analytical labs are facing an emerging field of methods for sampling, extraction, and analysis of microplastics, which complicate the establishment of standardized operational protocols. In this review, the state of the currently applied identification and quantification tools for microplastics are evaluated providing a harmonized guideline for future standardized operational protocols to cover these types of bills. The main focus is on the naked eye detection, general optical microscopy, the application of dye staining, flow cytometry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-Ir) and microscopy, Raman spectroscopy and microscopy, thermal degradation by pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (py-GC-MS) as well as thermo-extraction and desorption gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (TED-GC-MS). Additional techniques are highlighted as well as the combined application of the analytical techniques suggested. An outlook is given on the emerging aspect of nanoplastic analysis. In all cases, the methods were screened for limitations, field work abilities and, if possible, estimated costs and summarized into a recommendation for a workflow covering the demands of society, legislation, and administration in cost efficient but still detailed manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Primpke
- Alfred-Wegener-Institute Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, Helgoland, Germany
| | - Silke H Christiansen
- Research Group Christiansen, Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie, Berlin, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, Erlangen, Germany
- Physics Department, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Win Cowger
- University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Hannah De Frond
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ashok Deshpande
- NOAA Fisheries, James J. Howard Marine Sciences Laboratory at Sandy Hook, Highlands, NJ, USA
| | - Marten Fischer
- Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment (ICBM), Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Erika B Holland
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State University of Long Beach, Long Beach, CA, USA
| | - Michaela Meyns
- Alfred-Wegener-Institute Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, Helgoland, Germany
| | - Bridget A O'Donnell
- HORIBA Instruments Incorporated, A HORIBA Scientific Company, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Barbara E Ossmann
- Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Erlangen, Germany
- Food Chemistry Unit, Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy-Emil Fischer Center, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Marco Pittroff
- TZW: DVGW-Technologiezentrum Wasser (German Water Centre), Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - George Sarau
- Research Group Christiansen, Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie, Berlin, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Barbara M Scholz-Böttcher
- Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment (ICBM), Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Kara J Wiggin
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State University of Long Beach, Long Beach, CA, USA
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69
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Primpke S, Cross RK, Mintenig SM, Simon M, Vianello A, Gerdts G, Vollertsen J. Toward the Systematic Identification of Microplastics in the Environment: Evaluation of a New Independent Software Tool (siMPle) for Spectroscopic Analysis. APPLIED SPECTROSCOPY 2020; 74:1127-1138. [PMID: 32193948 PMCID: PMC7604885 DOI: 10.1177/0003702820917760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MP) are ubiquitous within the environment, but the approaches to analysis of this contaminant are currently quite diverse, with a number of analytical methods available. The comparability of results is hindered as even for a single analytical method such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) the different instruments currently available do not allow a harmonized analysis. To overcome this limitation, a new free of charge software tool, allowing the systematic identification of MP in the environment (siMPle) was developed. This software tool allows a rapid and harmonized analysis of MP across FT-IR systems from different manufacturers (Bruker Hyperion 3000, Agilent Cary 620/670, PerkinElmer Spotlight 400, and Thermo Fischer Scientific Nicolet iN10). Using the same database and the automated analysis pipeline in siMPle, MP were identified in samples that were analyzed with instruments with different detector systems as well as optical resolutions and the results discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Primpke
- Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz
Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, Kurpromenade,
Helgoland
- Sebastian Primpke, Alfred-Wegener-Institut
fur Polar- und Meeresforschung Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, Kurpromenade 201,
Helgoland 27498, Germany. Jes
Vollertsen, Aalborg University, Thomas Manns Vej 23, Aalborg 9220, Denmark.
| | - Richard K. Cross
- Pollution Science Area, UK Centre for
Ecology and Hydrology, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Svenja M. Mintenig
- Copernicus Institute of Sustainable
Development, Utrecht University, The Netherlands
| | - Marta Simon
- Department of the Built Environment,
Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Alvise Vianello
- Department of the Built Environment,
Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Gunnar Gerdts
- Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz
Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, Kurpromenade,
Helgoland
| | - Jes Vollertsen
- Department of the Built Environment,
Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
- Sebastian Primpke, Alfred-Wegener-Institut
fur Polar- und Meeresforschung Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, Kurpromenade 201,
Helgoland 27498, Germany. Jes
Vollertsen, Aalborg University, Thomas Manns Vej 23, Aalborg 9220, Denmark.
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