Applied Chemical Engineering

Microplastics as an emerging threat to human health: Challenges and advancements in their detection

Bibhawari Singh

Department of Biotechnology Engineering and Food Technology, Chandigarh University

Geetima Srivastava

Department of Biotechnology Engineering and Food Technology, Chandigarh University

Deepak Kala

NL-11, Terahertz Laboratory, Institute of High-Pressure Physics, Polish Academy of Sciences

http://orcid.org/0000-0003-2379-7422

Maheepinder Gill

Department of Biotechnology Engineering and Food Technology, Chandigarh University

Ankur Kaushal

Department of Biotechnology, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to Be) University

Shagun Gupta

Department of Biotechnology, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to Be) University

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24294/ace.v6i2.2103

Keywords: microplastics, microplastics classification, microplastics persistence, sampling methods, detection methods, FTIR, Raman, biosensors

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Abstract

Microplastic pollution has emerged as a significant environmental concern, with potential direct and indirect impacts on ecosystems. Microplastics are pervasive, found in water, food, and even the air we breathe. While their influence on human health is still unclear, microplastics are known to possess endocrine-disrupting properties and can accumulate persistent organic pollutants. Accurate measurement and categorization of microplastics are crucial to understanding their prevalence and impact on contamination. Fortunately, there are several methods available, such as visual analysis, fluorescence techniques, vibrational spectroscopy, and electron microscopy, that offer optimal accuracy in detecting and quantifying microplastics. The increasing presence of microplastics in the food chain has prompted global research efforts to assess potential risks to human health. However, despite ongoing advancements, challenges remain in standardizing analytical procedures and developing methods capable of detecting microplastics as small as nanometers. Visual classification-based methods, though limited in detecting smaller microplastics, show promise for improvement through integration with advanced technologies. This study primarily focuses on microplastic sampling strategies, detection methods, and their respective advantages and disadvantages, shedding light on the advancements and challenges in the field.

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Author Biographies

Bibhawari Singh, Department of Biotechnology Engineering and Food Technology, Chandigarh University

B.E. Biotechnology Student

Geetima Srivastava, Department of Biotechnology Engineering and Food Technology, Chandigarh University

B.E. Biotechnology Student

Deepak Kala, NL-11, Terahertz Laboratory, Institute of High-Pressure Physics, Polish Academy of Sciences

Postdoctoral Research Scientist

Maheepinder Gill, Department of Biotechnology Engineering and Food Technology, Chandigarh University

B.E. Biotechnology Student

Ankur Kaushal, Department of Biotechnology, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to Be) University

Associate Professor, Department of Biotechnology

Shagun Gupta, Department of Biotechnology, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to Be) University

Associate Professor, Department of Biotechnology

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