Microplastics: A Review of Methodology for Sampling and Characterizing Environmental and Biological Samples

In response to apparent damaging effects of plastics, especially microplastics, exposure to life, scientists have begun the arduous task of standardizing methods for the sample collection, separation, detection, and identification of microplastic particles. The ability to detect plastics depends upon the type of sample, procedure, instrument, expertise of the examiner, and the exact research question. The wide variability of sample processing and analyses does not lend itself well for cross-comparison of studies. However, with a multitude of procedures, techniques may be used in combination to successfully identify microplastic particles. Our goal in this chapter is not to provide a complete guide on plastic analyses, but to present an overview of the different sample collection, pretreatment, detection, and identification methodologies used for microplastic samples located in environmental and biological samples and to review advantages and limitations of each strategy.