We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Laser Ablation for Nondestructive Sampling of Microplastics in Single-Particle ICP-Mass Spectrometry
Summary
This study characterized laser ablation as a sampling method for introducing microplastic particles into an ICP-mass spectrometer for single-event carbon detection, enabling nondestructive analysis of microplastics of different types and sizes. The approach preserves particle integrity while providing elemental characterization.
In this work, laser ablation (LA) was characterized as a method for sampling and introducing microplastic particles (MPs) into an inductively coupled plasma (ICP) for subsequent 13C+ monitoring using an ICP-mass spectrometer operated in single-event mode. MPs of different types (PS, PMMA, and PVC) and sizes (2-20 μm) were introduced intactly. The laser energy density did not affect the particle sampling across a wide range (0.25-6.00 J cm-2). Single-shot analysis separated clustered MPs (2-7 MPs per cluster) during the LA and particle transport processes, allowing the temporally resolved analysis of the individual constituting MPs. Line scanning showed superior performance when using a small laser beam diameter combined with a high repetition rate. The 13C+ signal intensity correlated linearly (R2 >0.9945) with the absolute C mass in a 2-10 μm size range, while the use of He in the collision-reaction cell (CRC) allowed extension of the linear range to 20 μm. The LA approach generated narrower 13C+ signal distributions than the traditional solution-based approach (dry versus wet plasma conditions) and proved successful for the analysis of a mixed suspension (containing four sizes of PS MPs in a 2-5 μm size range) and for sampling MPs from PVDF and glass microfiber filters, with the latter offering a lower background.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Novel calibration approach for particle size analysis of microplastics by laser ablation single particle-ICP-MS
Researchers developed a new calibration method for sizing microplastic particles using laser ablation coupled with mass spectrometry, eliminating the need for costly certified reference materials. Using a polystyrene thin film as the calibration standard, they achieved accurate sizing of particles as small as 2 micrometers across multiple polymer types. The approach demonstrated broad applicability and high transport efficiency, suggesting it could become a universal tool for microplastic particle analysis.
Direct Measurement of Microplastics by Carbon Detection via Single Particle ICP-TOFMS in Complex Aqueous Suspensions
Researchers developed a single particle ICP-TOFMS method for directly measuring microplastics in complex aqueous suspensions by detecting carbon, successfully differentiating microplastic carbon from natural particles and dissolved organic carbon in environmental samples.
Laser ablation-based techniques for microplastic analysis: recent advances and applications
This review evaluates two laser-based analytical techniques for detecting and characterizing microplastics: laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) and laser ablation mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS). Researchers found that both methods offer spatially resolved elemental analysis that can complement traditional polymer identification approaches. The study advocates combining these techniques for a more complete picture of microplastic composition and the toxic contaminants they carry.
Trace element distribution in marine microplastics using laser ablation-ICP-MS
Laser ablation-ICP-MS was applied to characterize trace element distributions within individual microplastic particles collected from marine environments. The technique revealed that microplastics carry and concentrate diverse trace metals on their surfaces, providing direct evidence of their capacity to transport metal contaminants in marine systems.
Laser ablation-based techniques for microplastic analysis
This review examined laser ablation-based analytical techniques for detecting, characterizing, and quantifying microplastics in environmental and biological samples. The methods offer high spatial resolution and material specificity, making them valuable tools for advancing microplastic research.