Semi-automated analysis of microplastics in complex wastewater samples

In order to assess risks the natural environment from microplastics, it is necessary have reliable information on all potential inputs and discharges. This relies stringent quality control measures ensure accurate reporting. Here we focus wastewater treatment works (WwTWs) complex sample matrices these provide. Composite samples of both influent effluent were collected over a 24 h period two separate occasions eight different WwTWs across UK. Sludge taken five WwTWs. The WwTW treatments included activated sludge, trickling filter biological aerated flooded with or without tertiary treatment. Using micro-FTIR analysis, microplastics ?25 ?m identified quantified. Procedural blanks used derive limits detection (LOD) quantification (LOQ). Where values above LOQ, in ranged 955 17,214 microplastic particles/L 2 54 particles/L, giving an average removal rate 99.8%. Microplastics could be quantified sludge at concentrations 301–10,380 microplastics/g dry weight, this analytical method therefore revealing higher than reported previous studies. most common polymers present overall polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) terephthalate (PET). We also report critical considerations for blank corrections analysis types.