Raman microspectroscopy as a tool for microplastic particle analysis

Abstract

This review discusses the identification and quantification of microplastic (MP) using Raman microspectroscopy (RM). It addresses scientists investigating MP in environmental and food samples. We show the benefits and limitations of RM from a technical point of view (sensitivity, smallest particle sizes, speed optimizations, analysis artefacts and background effects) and provide an assessment of the relevance of lab analyses and their interpretation (sample sizes for the analysis, uncertainty of the analysis). All parts are complimented by extensive literature data and a theoretical derivation of the concepts. We conclude with suggestions for a feasible and meaningful RM analysis of MP samples.