Microplastics

Microfibre pollution is a hot topic for industry, consumers, and legislators. The suspected toxicity risks of microplastics as contaminants in drinking water sources have been known for years. However, public concerns recently thrust microplastics to the forefront of the health and safety conversation.

What Eurofins can offer

We have developed an innovative new test method to assess the microfibre-shedding potential of commercially-manufactured synthetic textiles such as polyester, acrylic, elastane, and nylon. The test quantifies the number of microfibres likely to be released during the laundry process for the life of a fabric or garment. This test can help you better understand the environmental impact of your products.

Currently, we have developed and verified methods for the analysis of:

Potable Water, Environmental Waters (Surface Water, Marine Water)
Solid Samples (Soil)
Biota Samples (Oysters, Mussels)
Environmental Samples (Sewerage, Biosolids)

Analytical Techniques

There are several analytical methods ranging from microscopy, spectroscopy to thermal analysis that can be used to identify microplastic particles, each with their own capabilities and advantages. Across Eurofins Group we are able to offer the following analysis techniques:

Direct microscopy (USA, Norway)
Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) microscopy (USA, Germany)
Laser Direct Infrared (LDIR) Imaging with Attenuated Total Reflectance (ATR) module (Melbourne, Australia)
Pyrolysis GC-MS (Norway)

Results will be reported as total numbers of particles/volume and a size distribution (between 20 – 300µm). The lab will be able to determine the plastic type by using spectral data and can help to determine the source of the contamination. For particles >300µm the ATR module will be utilised for analysis.

Eurofins will provide all necessary bottles and coolers for sampling and shipping back to the laboratory. It is recommended that the samples be collected and returned back to the lab, stored at 2 - 6°C.

For any technical questions, do feel free to reach out to us at Sales_Singapore@eurofins.com.