Riccardo Liguori UBC researchers have developed a portable instrument capable of detecting the presence of micro- and nanoplastics in liquids. A discovery that could revolutionize the way we monitor plastic pollution and protect our health
@Canva
Microplastics and nanoplastics are now everywhere: in our food, water, and air. These particles, invisible to the naked eye, result from the degradation of plastic objects we use daily and pose a threat to human health and the environment. Nanoplastics, in particular, are extremely small and can penetrate the biological barriers of our bodies, accumulating toxins and causing damage that is not yet fully understood. Until now, detecting these particles required expensive equipment and specialized personnel. However, thanks to a team of researchers from the University of British Columbia (UBC), this could soon change.
A low-cost, portable plastic detector
Dr. Tianxi Yang’s team has developed a portable and affordable device capable of accurately measuring the amount of plastic released by everyday objects like disposable cups and water bottles.
The tool, paired with an app, uses fluorescent tagging to detect plastic particles ranging from 50 nanometers to 10 microns in size, providing results within minutes. All this comes at a minimal cost: “Each test costs only 1.5 cents,” says co-author Haoming (Peter) Yang.
How does it work?
The device consists of a small, biodegradable, 3D-printed box containing a wireless digital microscope, a green LED light, and an excitation filter. The software, customized with machine learning algorithms, processes the images captured by the microscope.
To conduct a test, a tiny liquid sample (less than a drop) is placed in the box. The green LED light makes the plastic particles glow, which are then visualized and measured by the microscope. The results, displayed on a smartphone or other mobile device, indicate the presence and quantity of plastic in the sample.
Study findings
To test the device’s effectiveness, Dr. Yang’s team analyzed disposable polystyrene cups. The results were striking: the cups released hundreds of millions of nanoplastic particles, far smaller than a human hair.
The device is currently calibrated to measure polystyrene, but the machine learning algorithm can be modified to detect various types of plastics. The researchers aim to commercialize the device for multiple real-world applications, helping to monitor plastic pollution and protect human health.
“To reduce plastic ingestion, it is important to consider avoiding petroleum-based plastic products by opting for alternatives like glass or stainless steel for food containers,” says Dr. Yang. “The development of biodegradable packaging materials is also crucial to replace traditional plastics and move toward a more sustainable world“.
