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Practical guidelines and challenges in the isolation and characterization of microplastics/microfibers by Raman
Leonel I Silva1, Ana C Ronda2, Marcelo C Sosa Morales1
1Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología de Materiales (INTEMA-CONICET/UNMDP), Avda. Colón 10850, Mar del Plata, Argentina.
Abstract:
We address some challenges usually encountered in the analysis of microplastics (MPs) and microfibers (MFs) using Raman microscopy. Those issues are examined considering that the researchers that carry out the collection and analysis of MP contamination may not have necessarily specialized expertise in Raman microscopy or polymer chemistry. Topics such as effective particle isolation or the use of adequate substrates are approached on the base of the impact they have on the spectroscopic characterization. Issues as the control of background signal, the influence of sample digestion, and the presence of internal interferences such as pigments, dyes, and fillers, are discussed. Spectral features of the polymer families found as MP/MF contaminants are presented based upon polymer structure, properties, and applications. The use of open-source libraries to complement chemical identification is also discussed. Overall, this work aims to enhance the practice and understanding of Raman microscopy for researchers engaged in characterizing MP/MF contaminants.
Insights
This study simplifies microplastic (MP) and microfiber (MF) analysis using Raman microscopy for non-experts. It offers practical solutions for particle isolation, background noise, and spectral interpretation to improve contaminant identification.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Analytical Chemistry
- Materials Science
Background:
- Microplastic (MP) and microfiber (MF) contamination is a growing environmental concern.
- Raman microscopy is a powerful tool for identifying MPs and MFs, but its application can be challenging for researchers without specialized expertise.
- Challenges include particle isolation, substrate selection, background signal control, sample digestion, and interference from additives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide practical guidance for researchers analyzing microplastics and microfibers using Raman microscopy.
- To address common challenges faced by non-specialists in Raman spectroscopy and polymer chemistry.
- To enhance the accuracy and efficiency of MP/MF characterization.
Main Methods:
- Discussion of effective particle isolation techniques and substrate choices impacting spectroscopic characterization.
- Analysis of strategies for controlling background signals and managing sample digestion.
- Examination of interferences from pigments, dyes, and fillers in spectral data.
Main Results:
- Presentation of spectral features for common polymer families found in MP/MF contaminants, linked to their structure, properties, and applications.
- Demonstration of how sample preparation and interference management affect spectral quality.
- Highlighting the utility of open-source libraries for augmenting chemical identification.
Conclusions:
- The study offers practical insights to improve the application of Raman microscopy for MP/MF analysis.
- Enhanced understanding of spectral features and potential interferences aids researchers in accurate identification.
- The work empowers a broader range of scientists to effectively characterize microplastic and microfiber contaminants.
