Analysis of environmental samples containing microplastics is essential to determine their prevalence and their impact. A range of analytical techniques have been applied to the analysis of microplastics. Of the techniques adopted, infrared (IR) spectroscopy, and more specifically IR microscopy, has established itself as a primary analytical technique for the detection and identification of microplastics.<br/>The microplastics analysis workflow for IR microscopy consists of several steps involved in getting from the raw sample to answers, including the initial sampling through to data analysis. The steps involved may be different depending on the type of initial sample and the amount of sample cleanup required to prepare the sample for infrared (IR) analysis. This paper describes the different types of environmental samples, the sample collection methods, the range of different sample cleanup methods, and then deals more specifically with the best ways to optimise sample filtration for measurement by IR microscopy.  The principles of IR microscopy and the different sample measurement modes will be described, comparing and contrasting each type. IR microscopy and imaging experiments can generate significant quantities of data that need to be analysed to get the required information. The different methods for extracting data and information will be explained and suggestions made for best practice.

Optimizing research workflows for microplastics analysis in environmental samples using FTIR microscopy

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