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Identification and classification of polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride and low-density polyethylene microplastics using terahertz imaging based on terahertz frequency-domain spectroscopy system
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Scientists used a special light imaging technique (terahertz waves) to spot and tell apart different types of microplastics mixed together, without needing to sort or prepare samples first. This matters because faster, easier microplastic detection could help researchers better track these tiny pollutants that end up in our food, water, and eventually our bodies.
Microplastic contamination has emerged as a significant threat for the environment. Although several optical spectroscopy and imaging technique have demonstrated capabilities for microplastic detection, conventional methods require extensive sample preparation and isolation of microplastics for analysis. We aim to identify and classify three common microplastics: polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl chloride, and low-density polyethylene directly within a composite mixture using continuous-wave terahertz (CW-THz) spectroscopy and imaging in reflection mode. A custom-designed metal sample holder was employed for stable placement and spatial separation of samples during imaging in reflection mode. THz frequency-domain spectroscopy was conducted in 0.1-0.7 THz range to extract the optical parameters such as reflection coefficient and refractive index. Based on these spectral response, imaging was performed at 0.1 THz, 0.3 THz and 0.55 THz. Classification was carried out by comparing mean intensity values of individual microplastic to segment mixture region. Among the evaluated frequencies, 0.3 THz showed better image contrast and classification performance. These findings validate the potential of CW-THz imaging as a nondestructive technique for effective detection and classification of microplastics in complex mixture.
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