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A novel and fast application of SWIR imaging spectroscopy enables multi-temporal surveys for microplastic particles in an urban watercourse traversing Berlin

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Scientists tested a fast, camera-based scanning technology to detect microplastic pollution in a river running through Berlin, tracking it over multiple time periods. This matters because microplastics, tiny plastic fragments that can end up in our water and food, are notoriously hard and slow to measure with traditional lab methods, so faster detection tools could help cities monitor pollution levels and protect water quality more efficiently. While this study focuses on the technology itself rather than direct health effects, better tracking tools are a key step toward understanding and reducing our exposure to microplastics in the environment.

Author: Bochow, M. et al.; Genre: Conference Paper; Finally published : 2019; Title: A novel and fast application of SWIR imaging spectroscopy enables multi-temporal surveys for microplastic particles in an urban watercourse traversing Berlin

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