Outlook on optical identification of micro- and nanoplastics in aquatic environments

Abstract

Plastic pollution in natural water bodies is an emerging problem that requires quick actions. Recently, the role of micro- and nanoplastics in pollution and health issues has been realized and taken seriously. In this paper, we have studied optical properties, such as NIR spectra and refractive index, of some common plastic materials and present a method and data to screen especially problematic transparent plastics with rough surface in aquatic environments. We also give an outlook of possible optical measurement methods that could be used for detection of micro- and nanoplastics.