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High-resolution characterization technology for micro-/nano-plastics
Summary
This review provides an overview of advanced technologies for detecting and characterizing micro- and nanoplastics, including Raman spectroscopy, infrared imaging, and mass spectrometry techniques. Researchers evaluated the capabilities and limitations of each method, particularly for identifying the smallest plastic particles that are most challenging to measure. The study emphasizes that improving detection at the nanoscale is essential for accurately assessing the environmental and health risks of plastic pollution.
Abstract Microplastics (MPs) are plastic residues with a size <5 mm, which are often further broken into micro/nano size particles in the environment. Owing to their minute scale, widespread distribution, and substantial toxicity potential, MPs has emerged as a critical environmental concern. Therefore, accurate characterization of these particles becomes a formidable yet imperative challenge in environmental science. In this review, a comprehensive overview on current MP characterization techniques, including microscopy/electron microscopy, spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry, have been summarized and discussed. We assess their applicability, strengths, limitations, as well as recent advancements. We also highlight the features offered by different techniques and the particles size range for which each technique is suitable. Furthermore, the combination of different characterization techniques and some novel techniques that can be used in MP characterization are also mentioned. This work offers a reference for MP characterization, which will facilitate the detection of MP in the environment.