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A Simple Spectral Method for Nanoplastic Identification and Characterisation
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Researchers developed a fluorescence mapping method using Nile Red staining to locate, quantify, and identify polystyrene and polyethylene terephthalate nanoplastics down to 60 nm in size, overcoming the diffraction limits of conventional spectroscopy. Verification by scanning electron microscopy confirmed the technique can resolve individual nanoplastics of different types and sizes in complex real-world samples containing contaminant and additive nanoparticles.
Abstract Detecting and monitoring the presence of nanoplastics (NPs) in the environment is a challenge due to their small size compared to the diffraction limits (~ 300 nm) of conventional spectroscopy. To address this, we developed a straightforward fluorescence mapping technology capable of accurately locating, quantifying, and identifying Nile-Red-stained polystyrene and polyethylene terephthalate NPs down to sizes of 60 nm. Verification of the quantity and locations of dyed NPs within a scanned area was carried out by scanning electron microscopy in conjunction with fluorescence mapping analysis. The ability to successfully resolve individual NPs of different type and sizes in complex real-world samples in the presence of contaminant and chemical additive nanoparticles was demonstrated and provides the basis for low-cost rapid screening of NPs.
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Researchers developed an improved method for characterizing microplastics using Nile Red fluorescent staining combined with fluorescence spectroscopy. They found that different plastic polymers produce distinct fluorescent signatures when stained, enabling more reliable identification of plastic types. The technique offers a faster and more affordable alternative to traditional microplastic detection methods, which could help scale up environmental monitoring efforts.
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Researchers used fluorescent labeling with four fluorescent molecules to enable detection of nanoplastics from six common polymer types (PP, LDPE, HDPE, PS, PET, PVC) via 3D fluorescence spectral analysis. The method provides a practical approach to identifying and quantifying nanoplastics in samples where conventional spectroscopic methods face sensitivity challenges.
Rapid detection of nanoplastics and small microplastics by Nile-Red staining and flow cytometry
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Researchers developed a rapid method for detecting nanoplastics and small microplastics by combining Nile-Red fluorescent staining with flow cytometry. The technique can quantify plastic particles in the 0.6 to 15 micrometer range in just 90 seconds, which is hundreds of times faster than conventional spectroscopic methods. The approach showed high detection efficiency for polyethylene, polyvinylchloride, and polystyrene, offering a practical tool for environmental nanoplastic monitoring.
Nile Red staining for nanoplastic quantification: Overcoming the challenge of false positive counts due to fluorescent aggregates
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Researchers expanded the Nile Red staining method to quantify nanoplastics smaller than 1 µm, identifying fluorescent aggregates as a source of false positive counts and developing methodological corrections to overcome this challenge and improve the accuracy of nanoplastic detection in environmental samples.
Nile Red staining for the detection of microplastics: a comprehensive study on the emission spectra
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When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.