Analysis of micro and nanoplastic particles in Nanobio Core Facility

23 Jan 2025

Environmental pollution by micro- and nanoplastics has become a significant concern. These tiny plastic particles, less than 5 millimeters in size, originate from the degradation of larger plastic items and are found in various environments, including oceans, soils, consumer products, and food. Their presence poses risks to ecosystems and human health, as they can be ingested by marine and terrestrial organisms, entering the food chain.

Raman microscopy is employed to analyze these particles due to its ability to provide detailed chemical information. The analysis involves several matrices: water, milk, blood, tissues, soil, and food. Sample preparation typically involves liquefying and filtering the samples to isolate the particles.

The structural and chemical analysis is processed semi-automatically using the Particle Analysis software module of the standard Renishaw Wire program. This software allows for efficient particle detection and characterization. The resolution is given by a 100x objective, enabling precise imaging of the particles.

A chemical library containing almost 300 polymeric compounds is used for identification, and this library can be extended by characterizing new materials. This comprehensive approach ensures accurate identification and quantification of micro- and nanoplastics in various environmental samples.

However, the Particle Analysis module is applicable to a wide range of different applications, such as deposited pharmaceutical sprays and inhalers, forensic trace materials, graphene and other 2D materials, and biological applications such as cytology.

Moreover, the Raman confocal microscope Renishaw InVia is available to our users for various other applications. After upgrading, two lasers are available - 633 nm (15 mW) with a new 785 nm LED laser source (100 mW); various dry and immersion objectives can be applied for the bright and dark fields. Polarization of the Raman signal may bring useful information about the sample structure.

For more information, see our website, www.ceitec.eu/nanobio, or contact us directly at nanobiocf@ceitec.muni.cz email.

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