Exploring fragmentation techniques for the preparation of test microplastics

Microplastics refer to tiny fragments of plastic, measuring less than 5 mm, that have been discovered as widespread and varied pollutants in all environmental compartments. Their presence has profound implications for ecosystems and human health, making the exploration of microplastics a crucial field of investigation. Nonetheless, handling microplastics in both lab and field settings presents challenges, primarily due to the complex diversity of physical and chemical microplastic characteristics. The progress of research in this field relies on the availability of representative materials that can replicate real-world scenarios. Producing more relevant test microplastics remains a significant obstacle, involving the exploration of processes that closely mimic environmental conditions. To address this issue, we have investigated three distinct cryogenic grinding techniques for producing lab-scale microplastics: the mixer mill, immersion blender, and ultracentrifugal mill. By investigating these methods, we can glean insights into the preparation of test materials towards a harmonization of analytical methods for microplastic analysis.