Plastic pollution is a growing concern, and nanoplastics—tiny plastic particles smaller than one micrometre—are among the most difficult to detect and understand. These particles can form when larger plastics break down or are released directly through manufacturing processes. Due to their small size, nanoplastics can be easily absorbed by organisms and may reach critical organs in the human body.
This project aims to develop and refine techniques to detect and measure nanoplastics in everyday environments, including indoor air and water. By combining cutting-edge laboratory methods—such as Asymmetrical Flow Field-Flow Fractionation (AF4) and Pyrolysis Gas Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (Py-GC-MS/MS)—the team is working to identify the size, shape, type, and quantity of nanoplastics present in environmental samples. The results will help build a clearer picture of how widespread nanoplastics are and their potential risks to human and environmental health.
Ultimately, the project will contribute new tools and knowledge to support better monitoring, regulation, and management of plastic pollution.
