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Analysing microplastics in samples of terrestrial systems
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This methodology paper addresses the analytical challenges of extracting and quantifying microplastics from complex terrestrial samples such as soil, sediment, and biota, reviewing extraction, separation, and identification techniques. Standardized approaches for terrestrial microplastic analysis lag behind aquatic methods, limiting understanding of land-based pollution.
The presence, fate and effects of microplastics (MP) in terrestrial systems are largely unknown. The few existing studies investigated either agricultural or industrial sites. Several techniques were used for analysis, primarly spectroscopic methods such as FTIR or Raman. Sample pretreatments like density separations are common to reduce matrix. A lack of harmonised and standardised sampling instructions for microplastic investigations in the terrestrial area was identified as particular critical, because different studies are barely comparable. The aim of the project is to develop a proposal for a harmonized procedure for sampling, sample preparation and the detection of microplastics in terrestrial matrices for total content determination. By detecting specific degradation products the thermal extraction desorption gas chromatography mass spectrometry (TED-GC-MS) allows a direct determination of mass content of MP in environmental samples.
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Microplastics in soils: assessment, analytics and risks
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This review examines microplastic prevalence, analytical methods, and risks in soils, finding that terrestrial microplastic contamination has received far less attention than marine accumulation despite comparable or greater abundance. Researchers evaluated current difficulties in soil microplastic sampling, isolation, and identification and called for standardised methodologies to assess ecological and human health risks.
Microplastic in Soil: a Review of Detection Methods
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This review examines published approaches for detecting and identifying microplastics in soil environments, synthesizing sampling, extraction, and characterization methods to address the lack of standardization that hinders cross-study comparisons. Researchers found that unifying detection methods is essential for developing a common understanding of microplastic prevalence and impact in terrestrial ecosystems.
Microplastics in soils: A comparative review on extraction, identification and quantification methods
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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.
Sampling, separation, and characterization methodology for quantification of microplastic from the environment
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This review summarizes the various methods scientists use to collect, prepare, and identify microplastics from soil, water, air, and living organisms, noting that current techniques are complex, inconsistent across studies, and cannot yet identify microplastics without removing them from their environment. Better standardized methods are needed to accurately measure human and environmental exposure to microplastics.
A Complete Guide to Extraction Methods of Microplastics from Complex Environmental Matrices
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This review provides a comprehensive guide to the methods used for extracting microplastics from complex environmental samples like soil, sediment, water, and biological tissue. Researchers compare the effectiveness, cost, and practicality of different extraction approaches. The study highlights the ongoing need for standardized, efficient methods so that microplastic pollution measurements from different studies can be reliably compared.
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