Microplastics as Habitat Technology
INSTRUMENT
Spectrum Two FT-IR Spectrometer
Microplastics build up a biofilm on their surfaces over time which in turn concentrate harmful organic pollutants such as pesticides. These then enter the food chain through marine life and are passed on to higher organisms. Analytical solutions such as chromatography and mass spectrometry allow for identification and quantification of these pollutants, and the automation of sample preparation steps, such as solid-phase extraction (SPE), can make the whole process more efficient.
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that form as a result of the plastic content in consumer products and the breakdown of large plastics. Once they have entered the environment, microplastics become pollutant, causing harm to the environment.
eXXpedition is a non-profit organization running all-women research sailing voyages focused on investigating the causes and sources of plastic pollution in our oceans.
INSTRUMENT
Spectrum Two FT-IR Spectrometer