Analytical tools in advancing microplastics research for identification and quantification across environmental media: from sample to insight

Microplastic (MP) pollution poses a significant environmental threat, evident in its pervasive presence across all components of ecosystems, from air, water, and soil to living organisms, including humans. Among other commonly employed methods, two analytical tools are essential for reliable identification and quantification of MPs in these diverse media: Fourier Transform Infrared Microspectroscopy (µFTIR) and Thermal Desorption-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (TED-GC-MS). The efficiency of utilizing these techniques as complementary methods in microplastic research is notable and offers valuable insights into MP occurrence, composition, distribution, quantity, and mass within various environmental matrices. Regardless of the effectiveness of measuring methods, the key to successful results lies in the preparation phase, which consists of two main stages: sampling and preparing samples for analysis. Throughout this process, scientists face various challenges, such as designing effective sampling strategies that balance representativeness with practicality, and navigating complex sample preparation procedures dependent on the chosen method. The importance of meticulous sample preparation requires ongoing evaluation and adaptation within microplastics analyses. Critical components of this research include factors like reevaluating analytical equipment and laboratory infrastructure, maintaining the complexities of interference removal processes, upholding quality assurance and controls, and standardizing documentation and methodologies across microplastic laboratories. Understanding the types and abundance of MPs throughout diverse environmental media enables the development of effective mitigation strategies, guides standards development, and informs future research efforts. Interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation are essential for advancing microplastics research and ensuring global consistency. Also see: https://micro2024.sciencesconf.org/547239/document