High-Throughput Detection of Microplastic Using Raman Spectroscopy

Session: Microplastics in the Environment: Source, Fate, Impact, Detection, and Mitigation (2)

Mark Cheng, Wayne State University, Electrical and Computer Engineering, [email protected]
Yongli Zhang, Wayne State University, [email protected]
Carol Miller, Wayne State University, 2154 Engineering Bldg, [email protected]
Weisong Shi, Wayne State University, [email protected]
Ming-Tsung Hsu, Chang-Gung University, [email protected]

Abstract

Microplastics (MP), including microbeads, fragments and fibers are defined as plastics smaller than 5mm in size. Water pollution due to MP is a top emerging concern for ecological and human health.  Existing technologies for monitoring and sourcing MP are expensive, time-consuming and labor-intensive. In this presentation, we will discuss our progress in the development of lightweight, and sensitive Raman IoT sensors that are suitable for high-throughput in-line analysis of MP. Compared to the technique of Fourier Transform Infrared spectrum (FTIR), which is widely used in the literature for microplastic research, Raman measurement does not require extension sample cleaning and preparation and is compatible with the presence of water. In order to have high throughput analysis of microplastic, a short acquisition time of Raman spectra (and higher flow rate in the fluidic channels) is preferred, which in turns relies on the Raman measurement efficiency and flow rate. We will discuss the engineering aspects of sensing system, fluidic channels and optical objective in order to have optimized performance in signal collection, sensitivity and MP identification.