A peak comparison index approach for robust microplastic analysis across environmental matrices: validation using...

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Environmental Science
• Food Safety

Background:

• Microplastic contamination in food poses risks to human health and the environment.
• Accurate detection methods are crucial for complex organic matrices like meat.
• Standardized analytical approaches are needed for reliable microplastic quantification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate chemical digestion methods for microplastic detection in meat.
• To compare the efficacy of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), hydrochloric acid (HCl), sodium hydroxide (NaOH), and Fenton's reagent.
• To identify the optimal method for preserving polymer integrity and removing organic matter.

Main Methods:

• Systematic evaluation of four chemical digestion methods: H2O2, HCl, NaOH, and Fenton's reagent.
• Analysis of polymer integrity for polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) samples.
• Development and application of a novel peak comparison index (PCI) for spectral alteration assessment.

Main Results:

• HCl and NaOH exhibited the highest organic matter removal efficiencies.
• Both HCl and NaOH preserved polymer integrity across PE, PS, and PVC.
• NaOH was identified as the least disruptive digestion method based on PCI analysis.

Conclusions:

• The study establishes a robust framework for microplastic detection in meat.
• Methodological harmonization is enhanced through systematic comparison of digestion-induced polymer modifications.
• Findings support improved accuracy in microplastic analysis, risk assessment, and contamination mitigation strategies in food systems.