We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Analysis of microplastics in soil samples by using a thermal decomposition method
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers tested thermal decomposition as a method for extracting and identifying microplastics in soil samples, a particularly challenging matrix because organic matter interferes with optical detection methods. The approach showed promise for detecting and quantifying plastic content in complex soil environments.
While plastics have become indispensable in our daily lives over the last decades, the input into the environment has been increasing concurrently. Plastics often end up in the environment because of intensive use and poor waste management practice. They are subjected to aging and fragmentation and finally be deposited as microplastic particles or in short microplastics (MP). MP are defined as particles originating from synthetic polymers between 1 µm and 5 mm. Although the pervasive abundance of MP in aquatic environments has been demonstrated comprehensively, less is known about the occurrence and fate of MP in terrestrial ecosystems. It is still unclear if soil functions as a MP source or a sink for aquatic environments. MP can either be transported into water bodies by soil erosion or be retained in soils. The few studies published are not comparable because of non-existent harmonized and standardized methods for sampling, sample preparation, and analysis. For an assessment of a potential exposure situation of MP, the determination of a mass content in the soil is crucial. Consequently, spectroscopic methods like Raman or FTIR are not suitable, as they deliver information about the shape and size of individual particles. Therefore, we show the application of ThermoExtractionDesorption-GasChromatography-MassSpectrometry (TED-GC-MS) for MP analysis in the soil. In this method, the soil sample is heated up to 600 °C in a nitrogen atmosphere. The decomposition gases are sorbed on a solid phase, then transferred to a GS-MS system where they are desorbed, separated and identified. The method allows the rapid identification of individual polymers through the detection of specific decomposition products, but also the quantitative determination of the MP mass. Besides thermoplastics, elastomers originated from tire abrasion, can be detected. In the present study, several terrestrial ecosystems in south-west Germany were systematically sampled. Subsequent sample preparation included sieving in fractions of 5-100 µm, 100-1000 µm, and 1-5 mm. MP were extracted by density separation using ZnCl2 solutions. The detection was done by TED-GC-MS measurements. Data of agricultural areas and floodplains are presented exemplarily. A quantitative assessment of highly occurring MP from littering as well as tire abrasion is conducted.
More Papers Like This
Detection of microplastics in compost samples using a thermal decomposition method
AI summary Read the abstract
A thermal decomposition method was evaluated for detecting and quantifying microplastics in compost samples, addressing the challenge of finding plastic particles in complex organic matrices. The approach enables identification of microplastic polymer types in compost through their characteristic thermal degradation signatures, supporting monitoring of plastic contamination in agricultural soils.
Salt crust-assisted thermal decomposition method for direct and simultaneous quantification of polypropylene microplastics and organic contaminants in high organic matter soils
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers developed a salt crust-assisted thermal decomposition method to directly detect and quantify polypropylene microplastics in soil samples, overcoming the interference from soil organic matter that hampers standard thermal analysis methods. The technique improves accuracy for measuring microplastic concentrations in soil without time-consuming pre-treatment steps.
Microplastics in soils: A comparative review on extraction, identification and quantification methods
AI summary Read the abstract
This review compares the various methods scientists use to extract, identify, and measure microplastics in soil, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each approach. Soil is a particularly challenging material to work with because its organic matter and complex structure can interfere with accurate microplastic detection. The authors recommend combining multiple techniques and minimizing harsh chemical steps that could accidentally destroy the very plastic particles being measured.
Improving analytical methods for the extraction and analysis of biodegradable and non-biodegradable microplastics in the soil environment.
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers worked to improve analytical extraction and detection methods for both biodegradable and conventional microplastics in soil environments, addressing a critical methodological gap given that terrestrial soils are major sinks for microplastic pollution entering through agricultural and waste management pathways.
Pathways of microplastics in soils - Detection of microplastic contents in compost using a thermal decomposition method
AI summary Read the abstract
This study investigated pathways by which microplastics reach agricultural soils, with a focus on detecting microplastic contamination in compost and sewage sludge. Thermal decomposition methods were used to identify polymer types, revealing that compost and sludge are significant vectors for introducing microplastics into soil.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.