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Protocol for Microplastics Sampling on the Sea Surface and Sample Analysis. [video article]
Summary
This methods paper and companion video describe a standardized protocol for sampling microplastics from the sea surface using a manta net, then processing and chemically identifying particles using microscopy and FTIR spectroscopy. Standardized sampling methods are critical for producing comparable microplastic data across different research groups and monitoring programs.
Microplastic pollution in the marine environment is a scientific topic that has received increasing attention over the last decade. The majority of scientific publications address microplastic pollution of the sea surface. The protocol below describes the methodology for sampling, sample preparation, separation and chemical identification of microplastic particles. A manta net fixed on an 'A frame' attached to the side of the vessel was used for sampling. Microplastic particles caught in the cod end of the net were separated from samples by visual identification and use of stereomicroscopes. Particles were analyzed for their size using an image analysis program and for their chemical structure using ATR-FTIR and micro FTIR spectroscopy. The described protocol is in line with recommendations for microplastics monitoring published by the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) Technical Subgroup on Marine Litter. This written protocol with video guide will support the work of researchers that deal with microplastics monitoring all over the world.