Imaging and identification of single nanoplastic particles and agglomerates

Pollution by nanoplastic is a growing environmental and health concern. Currently the extent of nanoplastic in the environment can only be cumbersomely and indirectly estimated but not measured. To be able to quantify the extent of the problem, detection methods that can identify nanoplastic particles that are smaller than 1 mu m are critically needed. Here, we employ surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) to image and identify single nanoplastic particles down to 100 nm in size. We can differentiate between single particles and agglomerates and our method allows an improvement in detection speed of 10(7) compared to state-of-the art surface-enhanced Raman imaging. Being able to resolve single particles allows to measure the SERS enhancement factor on individual nanoplastic particles instead of averaging over a concentration without spatial information. Our results thus contribute to the better understanding and employment of SERS for nanoplastic detection and present an important step for the development of future sensors.

Automated summary

Pollution by nanoplastic is a growing concern, but measuring its extent in the environment is currently difficult. This study introduces a detection method using surface-enhanced Raman scattering to image and identify single nanoplastic particles as small as 100 nm. The method allows differentiation between single particles and agglomerates, greatly improving detection speed. This research contributes to the understanding and application of surface-enhanced Raman scattering for nanoplastic detection and presents an important advancement for future sensor development.