Microplastic Research – Analytical Methods for Microplastic Quantification (2025)

Welcome to Microplastic Research – Analytical Methods for Microplastic Quantification (2025)

Course description: This PhD course addresses the theory of sampling, sample preparation and state-of-the-art analytical techniques to analyse microplastics in environmental matrices. Furthermore, it provides expert insights into various aspects of interdisciplinary microplastic research.

The course begins by introducing the fundamental principles and techniques for sampling microplastics across different environmental matrices, followed by a detailed exploration of the methods used to extract these particles from environmental samples. We will cover the steps necessary to remove natural organic and inorganic matter, ensuring that the samples are prepared for subsequent identification and analysis. Furthermore, the course will address quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) considerations, including the use of field and laboratory blanks, recovery studies, and the determination of appropriate sample sizes to obtain statistically robust data.

The focus then shifts to the theoretical foundations of suitable techniques for microplastics characterization. We cover the most widely used analytical methods, including vibrational spectroscopies, such Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, (including ATR-FTIR, µFTIR and µFTIR-imaging), and Raman micro-spectroscopy. Additionally, we explore the family of thermal degradation techniques, focusing on pyrolysis GC-MS as the most widely used approach for mass-based quantification of microplastics. Beyond their widespread use in research, these techniques are also integrated into the ISO 24187 standard and the ISO 16094-2 (final draft), which represent the current international standards for microplastics analysis.

The final step in microplastics research is the interpretation of the data obtained. We introduce siMPle, a software tool designed for (semi)automated µFTIR and Raman imaging data interpretation.

Furthermore, international experts in the field will provide insights into related topics through additional lectures and panel discussions, including, among others, transport and environmental processes, ecotoxicity, nanoplastic occurrence and analysis, human exposure and governance framework for micro&nanoplastics.

Prerequisites: This course aims to introduce participants to all relevant steps involved in microplastic analysis, and promotes discussion on issues, pros and cons of different approaches, and is in general very open and informally structured to promote discussions. Due to the interdisciplinary nature of the topic, the participants are expected to possess a basic knowledge of micro&nanoplastic pollution and the related analytical techniques. Therefore, they are encouraged to read up the suggested literature (and beyond) before the course.

Learning objectives:  This course aims to equip PhD students at both national and international levels with comprehensive knowledge on the theory, techniques, and interdisciplinary aspects of micro&nanoplasic research. By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

-        Acquire a diverse skill set for sampling microplastics across various matrices, encompassing biotic and abiotic contexts, from natural environments to the human health domain.

-        Implement robust Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA/QC) measures to ensure the generation of high-quality data suitable for publication in peer-reviewed articles.

-        Demonstrate an understanding of the underlying principles behind key analytical techniques employed in microplastic characterization, including FTIR spectroscopy and microscopy, Raman micro-spectroscopy, and pyrolysis GC-MS.

-        Recognize and actively engage with leading experts in the field of microplastic research, fostering valuable connections and gaining their insights in the current advancements and challenges in the context of microplastic analysis.

Teaching methods: The course features 8 two-hour online lectures and three panel discussions, each hosting leading experts. 

Structure:

Criteria for assessment:

-        Mandatory attendance in all scheduled course lectures (or > 80%).

-        Deliver a brief presentation introducing the participants and their research topic.

-        Submit a report summarizing acquired knowledge during the course, tailored to align with the participant's research objectives.

Key literature:

Ivleva, N. P. (2021). Chemical Analysis of Microplastics and Nanoplastics: Challenges, Advanced Methods, and Perspectives. Chemical Reviews, 121(19), 11886–11936. https://doi.org/10.1021/ACS.CHEMREV.1C00178

Liu, F., Vianello, A., & Vollertsen, J. (2019). Retention of microplastics in sediments of urban and highway stormwater retention ponds. Environmental Pollution, 255, 113335. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envpol.2019.113335

Löder, M. G. J., Imhof, H. K., Ladehoff, M., Löschel, L. A., Lorenz, C., Mintenig, S., Piehl, S., Primpke, S., Schrank, I., Laforsch, C., & Gerdts, G. (2017). Enzymatic Purification of Microplastics in Environmental Samples. Environmental Science and Technology, 51(24), 14283–14292. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.est.7b03055

Primpke, S., Cross, R. K., Mintenig, S. M., Simon, M., Vianello, A., Gerdts, G., & Vollertsen, J. (2020). Toward the Systematic Identification of Microplastics in the Environment: Evaluation of a New Independent Software Tool (siMPle) for Spectroscopic Analysis. Applied Spectroscopy, 74(9), 1127–1138. https://doi.org/10.1177/0003702820917760/ASSET/IMAGES/LARGE/10.1177_0003702820917760-FIG6.JPEG

Simon, M., van Alst, N., & Vollertsen, J. (2018). Quantification of microplastic mass and removal rates at wastewater treatment plants applying Focal Plane Array (FPA)-based Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) imaging. Water Research, 142, 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.WATRES.2018.05.019

Important information concerning PhD courses: 

There is a no-show fee of DKK 3,000 for each course where the student does not show up. Cancellations are accepted no later than 2 weeks before the start of the course. Registered illness is of course an acceptable reason for not showing up on those days. Furthermore, all courses open for registration approximately four months before start of the course.

We cannot ensure any seats before the deadline for enrolment, all participants will be informed after the deadline, approximately 3 weeks before the start of the course.

For inquiries regarding registration, cancellation or waiting list, please contact the PhD administration at phdcourses@adm.aau.dk  When contacting us please state the course title and course period. Thank you.