A review of advancements and challenges in nanoplastics detection

Nanoplastics, ubiquitous in the environment, pose a significant threat to ecosystems and health. Due to their small sizes and chemical similarity to organic matter, detection at trace levels requires sophisticated techniques. This review comprehensively surveys recent advancements in the identification of nanoplastics in environmental and biological samples. We discuss different analytical techniques, such as spectroscopy, microscopy, chromatography, and mass spectrometry, with a focus on their specific capabilities, limitations, and recent innovations. We also draw attention to the importance of standardized methodologies and the integration of advanced sampling, analysis techniques, and machine learning in enhancing detection sensitivity. Challenges and perspectives in nanoplastics detection are also discussed. This review may serve as a useful resource for researchers and policymakers to address the emerging threat of nanoplastics.