Perform Microplastics Analysis More Quickly and Accurately

Importance of Topic

Precise detection and quantification of microplastic particles in environmental and industrial samples is critical for assessing contamination levels and potential risks. Infrared and Raman microscopy coupled with automated particle analysis accelerates data acquisition and improves reliability of particle characterization.

Aims and Overview of the Article

This article introduces a particle analysis program integrated into the AMsolution software for AIMsight infrared microscope and AIRsight infrared Raman microscope. The program enables batch measurement of individual particle size, mass and volume, and provides statistical visualization for microplastics and contaminant analyses.

Instrumental Setup

The following instrumentation is used

• AIMsight infrared microscope
• AIRsight infrared Raman microscope
• AMsolution software with optional High speed mapping program for chemical imaging
• Particle Filter holder for membrane filters

Methodology and Procedures

Chemical mapping images from infrared or Raman measurements are processed by the particle analysis program. Users select reference components or built in libraries for contaminant and microplastic identification. A similarity algorithm and threshold value define particle classification. Aspect ratio filters exclude fibers when needed. Particle dimensions are extracted by image segmentation. Mass and volume are estimated using a theoretical relation between projected area and mass. Results can be reviewed in tables, histograms and bar charts.

Main Results and Discussion

The program computes major and minor axes, projected area, estimated mass and volume for each particle. A linear relationship between log area and log mass was adopted from recent research with parameters a equals minus 1.12 and b equals 1.14. Graphical outputs facilitate rapid assessment of particle distributions and component ratios. Highlighting features link image locations with data entries for verification.

Practical Benefits and Applications

Automated batch analysis reduces manual workload and subjectivity in microplastic and contaminant evaluation. Quantitative mass estimates enhance the assessment of pollution load. The flexible reporting system allows export of data tables and customized reports. Maintaining a flat filter surface via the PF holder improves focus and measurement accuracy.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Advances in mapping speed and spectroscopic sensitivity will expand throughput and detection limits. Integration of machine learning for spectral identification may improve classification accuracy. Adaptation to new sample types such as complex biological matrices and nanoplastics is anticipated. Combining multimodal imaging techniques could yield richer particle characterization.

Conclusion

The particle analysis program for AIMsight and AIRsight microscopes provides an efficient solution for microplastic and contaminant particle characterization. It delivers reliable size, shape, mass and volume estimations and supports comprehensive data visualization. This tool enhances laboratory productivity and supports environmental monitoring efforts.

Reference

Tomoya Kataoka Yota Iga Rifqi Ahmad Baihaqi et al Geometric relationship between the projected surface area and mass of a plastic particle Water Research 2024 261 122061