FT-IR AND RAMAN-MICROSCOPY - Microplastic Analysis

Význam tématu

Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than 5 mm that accumulate in the environment and pose a global threat to ecosystems and human health. Reliable detection and characterization of these particles are critical for environmental monitoring, pollution assessment and regulatory compliance.

Cíle a přehled článku

This article presents Bruker’s comprehensive approach to microplastic analysis using FT-IR and Raman microscopy. It introduces three analytical workflows, highlights sample preparation techniques and demonstrates the added value of machine learning–based evaluation software.

Použitá metodika a instrumentace

Sample preparation consists of density separation to remove inorganic debris, enzymatic or oxidative digestion to eliminate organic matrices and filtration on specialized membranes. Analytical workflows include:

• Point spectroscopy combined with light microscopy for particles >500 µm
• FT-IR and Raman microscopy for detailed characterization of particles down to 5 µm
• FT-IR and Raman imaging for high-throughput, chemical-contrast–based identification of dense microplastic samples

Použitá instrumentace

• LUMOS II: Ultrafast FT-IR imaging microscope with focal-plane array detector
• SENTERRA II: High-resolution Raman microscope and imaging system
• ALPHA II: Compact FT-IR spectrometer for flexible laboratory use
• BRAVO: Handheld Raman spectrometer for field analysis
• Purency Microplastics Finder: Automated software leveraging machine learning to identify 20 common polymers

Hlavní výsledky a diskuse

Bruker’s FT-IR imaging enables rapid identification of particles >2 µm, while Raman imaging extends detection down to 0.5 µm and below. Automation minimizes human error and increases throughput. The Purency finder software processes complex spectral data against a global polymer database, delivering reliable polymer identification, size distribution and spatial mapping within minutes.

Přínosy a praktické využití metody

• High sensitivity and specificity in microplastic detection across a broad size range
• Fully automated workflows reduce analysis time and operator bias
• Versatile applications in environmental monitoring, quality control, research and regulation enforcement

Budoucí trendy a možnosti využití

Emerging developments include deeper integration of artificial intelligence for real-time data analysis, expansion of spectral libraries for nanoplastic detection and portable instrumentation for in-field measurements. Standardized protocols will further harmonize results across laboratories.

Závěr

Bruker’s FT-IR and Raman microscopy platforms, combined with advanced software and robust sample preparation, offer a powerful toolkit for high-throughput, accurate microplastic analysis, supporting environmental research and regulatory needs.