Find out how much microplastic you are drinking with this new tool in minutes
Micro- and nanoplastics are present in our food, water, and the air we breathe, and can be found in various parts of our bodies. Researchers at the University of British Columbia have created an affordable and portable tool to accurately measure plastic particles released from everyday items like disposable cups and water bottles.
This tool, along with an app, uses fluorescent labeling to detect plastic particles that are too small to be seen by the naked eye, ranging from 50 nanometres to 10 microns in size. The results are obtained quickly and easily, making it a valuable tool for detecting plastic pollution.
Nano and microplastics are a concern as they are byproducts of degrading plastic materials and can easily absorb toxins and enter biological barriers in the human body. The new detection method developed by Dr. Tianxi Yang’s team simplifies the process and makes it more accessible to a wider audience.
The portable tool consists of a small biodegradable box with a wireless digital microscope, green LED light, and customized software with machine-learning algorithms. It works with a smartphone or other mobile device to visualize and measure plastic particles in a sample, making it easy to understand for both professionals and curious individuals.
The study conducted by the team showed that disposable polystyrene cups release millions of nano-sized plastic particles into liquids, highlighting the need for better detection and prevention methods. The tool is currently calibrated to measure polystyrene but can be adjusted to measure other types of plastics in the future.
Overall, the impacts of ingesting plastic particles are still being researched, but it is important to consider alternatives to petroleum-based plastics, such as glass or stainless steel containers, to reduce plastic ingestion and move towards a more sustainable world.
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Michael Thompson earned his degree in Agricultural Engineering from Purdue University in the USA, specializing in precision agriculture and smart farming technologies. His work revolves around the development of automated systems that increase farm efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Michael is now a senior engineer at a leading agri-tech company, where he designs innovative solutions for modern agriculture.