A need for Standardized Monitoring Methodologies

The presence of microplastics in oceans, lakes and various environmental aquatic systems is well documented with increasing evidence of microplastic particles present in both consumer foods and bottled beverages.  Whether monitoring environmental samples or consumer food products, a significant analytical capability gap exists for routine identification and quantification of microplastic particles.  In addition to mere identification, the size and morphology of particles is equally important when evaluating aquatic systems due to co-contamination of pollutants adhering to particle surfaces. With the support of EPA Region 9 and our partners at Agilent, Pima County and the University of Arizona have attempted to address these analytical deficiencies through the creation of ASTM standard methodologies for the collection, preparation and analysis of microplastic particles.