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Assessment of the Microplastics Content in Natural Waters and Sediments: Sampling and Sample Preparation
Summary
This review examines the challenges of sampling and preparing water and sediment samples for microplastic analysis, highlighting the lack of standardized methods. Researchers found that differences in collection techniques, sample volumes, and processing steps make it difficult to compare results across studies. The study calls for an internationally agreed-upon analytical framework to improve the reliability and consistency of microplastic monitoring worldwide.
Aquatic ecosystems serve as the primary reservoir for microplastics entering the environment. The assessment of the microplastics content in natural waters and sediments is a pressing task, the resolution of which is essential for evaluating the degree of pollution of water bodies, identifying sources of contamination, and assessing potential risks to aquatic inhabitants. Currently, there is no universal analytical approach to separating microplastics from natural waters and sediments for subsequent identification. This review summarizes information on the methods for sampling microplastics from natural waters and sediments and sample preparation techniques, including size- and density-based particle separation methods, as well as digestion-based methods relying on the digestion of samples to remove natural organic matter. Additionally, it outlines the classification of microplastics and provides general insights into their prevalence in aquatic ecosystems and potential toxicity.
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