Analysis of Microplastics by iSpect™ DIA-10 Dynamic Particle Image Analysis System and AIM-9000 Infrared Microscope

Introduction

Fine plastics with sizes on the order of several μm to several mm are called microplastics. Microplastics have become a global issue in recent years as a marine environmental problem that not only has adverse effects on coastal and marine ecosystems, but potentially may also affect human health. In order to protect the global environment, an early response is necessary. Various types of devices are used in identifying the sources of microplastics and studying improvement measures. A dynamic particle image analysis system is suitable for analysis of the shape and particle count concentration (particles/mL) of microplastics dispersed in solutions. Although analysis of individual microplastic particles is also possible by stereomicroscope, the burden on the operator is large and analysis efficiency is poor. A dynamic particle image analysis system can automatically detect particles with sizes of 5 to 100 μm dispersed in a solution and analyze their shape and particle count concentration in a short time. Infrared microscope, which excels in analysis of organic compounds, is suitable for qualitative analysis of microplastics with sizes of 100μm or less that can be captured with filter paper. Here, we introduce an example of analysis of the shape and particle count concentration of particles contained in environmental water and their qualitative analysis by using a dynamic particle image analysis system and an infrared microscope.

November 15, 2019 GMT