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Protocol for Microplastics Sampling on the Sea Surface and Sample Analysis
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When microplastics meet electroanalysis: future analytical trends for an emerging threat
Mónica Mosquera-Ortega1,2, Lucas Rodrigues de Sousa1,3, Sabina Susmel4
1Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioanalysis (LABB), Department of Biological Chemistry and IQUIBICEN, Faculty of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires and CONICET, Ciudad Universitaria, Buenos Aires (1428), Argentina. federicofigueredo@qb.fcen.uba.ar.
Analytical Methods : Advancing Methods and Applications
|November 3, 2023
Summary
Microplastics pose a significant environmental challenge, necessitating advanced detection methods. Electroanalytical techniques offer rapid, accurate detection of microplastics, especially in the sub-micron range, with AI showing promise for future automated analysis.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Microplastics (particles ≤5 mm) are pervasive environmental pollutants.
- Their small size, persistence, and mobility necessitate improved monitoring methods.
- Current analytical techniques face challenges in terms of ease of use, automation, and cost.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evolution and novelties of microplastic analytical methods.
- To highlight advanced techniques, particularly electroanalytical detectors.
- To discuss challenges and future trends in automated microplastic analysis.
Main Methods:
- Review of classical and advanced analytical methods for microplastic detection.
- Focus on electroanalytical detectors, methods, and devices.
- Analysis of recent trends including artificial intelligence (AI).
Main Results:
- Electroanalytical tools demonstrate significant advantages over spectroscopic and thermal analysis.
- These methods enable rapid and accurate detection of microplastics, particularly in the sub-micron range.
- Artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a key trend for automated analysis.
Conclusions:
- Electroanalytical methods are highly promising for microplastic monitoring.
- Further development is needed for automated, cost-effective, and user-friendly analytical solutions.
- AI integration holds potential for advancing microplastic detection capabilities.
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