Analysis and search for microplastics
You would like to carry out a laboratory analysis of microplastics
What are microplastics?
Microplastics are small particles of plastic (between 1 µm and 5 mm) that are insoluble in water and dispersed in the environment. They may be fragments of plastic objects resulting from degradation, synthetic fibres or plastic microbeads increasingly used by the cosmetics, paint and detergent industries, as well as in certain agricultural, medicinal and construction products.
What are SPM?
Synthetic polymer microparticles (SPM) are tiny fragments of plastic, generally less than a millimetre in size, made from polymers such as polyethylene or polystyrene. Used in a wide range of products such as cosmetics and industrial coatings, they offer advantages in terms of performance and versatility. However, SPMs present major environmental challenges, particularly because of their contribution to marine pollution and their slow degradation. This concern has led to increased regulation and the search for greener solutions.
How can FILAB assist you in the qualification, analysis and detection of microplastics?
FILAB, expert in microplastics and SPM analysis
The FILAB laboratory has developed extensive expertise in the detection and analysis of microplastics and SPM in industrial products and wastewater. Characterisation and research into microplastics can be carried out using various analytical approaches:
our technical resources
Detection of microplastics under a microscope (Optical Microscopy, SEM…)
OUR ANALYSIS SERVICES
Characterization of microplastics
Analysis according to method 445.0: microbeads in consumer products
Solubility threshold of the polymer to define whether it is considered microplastic by OECD method 120
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These methods and techniques enable rapid detection and characterisation of the presence of microplastics and synthetic polymer microparticles on the surface of a material or in a solution, in accordance with the new European Committee regulations.
The latest regulatory developments concerning microplastics
After being commissioned by the European Union, in 2019 ECHA proposed a far-reaching restriction on the use of microplastics in products put to market in the EU. This regulation aims to ban the commercialization of products containing microplastics in order to limit their release into the environment. In December of 2020, the SEAC (Committee for Socio-Economic Analysis) body endorsed ECHA’s proposal and made even stricter recommendations regarding the size limit of a piece of microplastic, which is now set to between 100nm and 5mm.
- Natural and not chemically modified
- Biodegradable
- With a water solubility >2g/L
- Exemption criteria
- 4a) synthetic polymer microparticles, as substances or in mixtures, intended for use on industrial sites;
- 5b) synthetic polymer microparticles whose physical properties are permanently altered during their intended end use such that the polymer no longer falls within the scope of this entry;
This European restriction, which comes into force in 2022, affects all industrial products, since microplastics are deliberately added to the majority of consumer products. However, it mainly concerns ‘microbeads’ in cosmetic products that are rinsed after use.
FAQ
Microplastics are a major problem because they persist for a long time in the environment. They can be ingested by wildlife, accumulating in the food chain and potentially affecting the health of animals and humans. In addition, they can carry toxic pollutants that attach themselves to their surface.
Although research into the effects of microplastics on human health is still ongoing, there are concerns about their ability to transport toxic substances in the body, as well as their potential impact when ingested or inhaled. This could lead to a variety of health problems, although further studies are needed to fully understand these risks.
Reducing pollution from microplastics requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes changes at industry level, such as reducing the use of plastics in products and improving recycling processes. Consumers can contribute by choosing plastic-free products, limiting the use of single-use items, and adopting washing habits that reduce the release of synthetic fibres. Government policies and regulations also play a crucial role in managing this pollution.
