Analytical Techniques of Microplastic in an Aquatic Environment

Microplastic pollution has emerged as a global environmental issue, raising concerns about its widespread presence and potential ecological consequences in aquatic environments. The presence of microplastics (MPs) in aquatic environments has gained increasing attention due to their persistence, abundance, and potential to accumulate in various habitats, from coastal regions to freshwater systems and even deep-sea sediments. This chapter provides a concise overview of the sources, ecotoxicology, and analytical techniques for sampling, extraction, and identification of MPs in aquatic environments. There is a wide range of sources for MPs found in aquatic environments, which can be categorized as either point and non-point sources or primary and secondary sources. Furthermore, the various analytical methods used for sampling (selective, bulk, and volume-reduced techniques), extracting (such as density separation, filtration, sieving and digestion techniques), and identifying (such as microscopy, spectroscopy, and chromatography techniques) MPs in water bodies were discussed. Although much has been learned about MPs in aquatic environments, there are still gaps in knowledge and opportunities for future research. This chapter also underscores the significance of these findings for management and policy, which can guide decision-making and reduce the adverse effects of MPs on humans and the natural environment.