project

Detecting (Nano)plastics in Environmental Water Samples Challenges and Applications using TGA-GC/MS

Microplastics have become a growing concern in urban water systems due to their potential impact on both the environment and human health. However, detecting and identifying microplastics—especially in complex water matrices—remains a major analytical challenge. This project aims to develop and validate advanced analytical methods, with a focus on thermal degradation coupled with GC/MS (TED-GC/MS), to improve the detection, characterisation, and quantification of microplastics in environmental samples. The results will support more reliable monitoring practices, thereby enhancing risk assessments and informing policy development.

Problem and Project Idea

Microplastics are increasingly found in surface water, wastewater and to some extent in drinking water, but current detection methods are limited in sensitivity and standardisation. This project aims to develop an improved methodology for preventing underestimation or overestimation of microplastics during detection and quantification in various water matrices?

What actions will we take?

We will optimise the characterisation of polymers using thermal degradation coupled with GC/MS-based fingerprinting, with a focus on minimising interference from variable parameters (co-pyrolysation, organic and inorganic matrices contribution, weathering). The project involves the development and validation of robust laboratory methods.

What will this deliver?

The project will result in an improved analytical method for microplastic detection, a reference library of polymer fingerprints, and recommendations for monitoring strategies in urban water systems.

 

Principle of TED-GC/MS: In this example, polystyrene is thermally degraded into smaller volatile molecules, which are then identified and quantified using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC/MS).