Methods for the Detection and Quantification of Micro and Nanoplastics- A Review

Over the past 35 years, synthetic or semi-synthetic polymers called “plastics” have been widely used across multiple fields due to their low cost, versatility, durability. Plastics have proved to be a boon to mankind. However, overuse of non- biodegradable plastics comes with its own downsides. Despite constant efforts to reuse and recycle plastics, these polymers substantially contribute towards the accumulation of debris hazardous to the environment. Plastic materials are slowly broken into fragments of micro- and nano plastics due to aging and weathering. Micro- and nano plastics were found capable of entering the food chain and hence are viewed as threats. This review paper revolves around methods used for the detection and quantification of micro- and nano plastics. Detection of micro- and nano plastics using methods like Raman spectroscopy, Infrared Spectroscopy, SERS, MALDI-TOF, and machine learning approaches are discussed here. The research efforts carried out in this article aims to further facilitate the R&D initiatives of Jozbiz Technologies.