Navigating Global Regulatory Frameworks for Microplastic Analysis in Drinking Water Using Vibrational Spectroscopy

As interest in microplastics in the environment and food chain grows, so does the interest in the potential impacts for environmental and human health. This, coupled with strong public attention, has led to various organizations around the world looking towards the potential for regulations. While there are no specific regulations relating to the occurrence of microplastics in, for example, food, drinking water, or wastewater, an increasing number of standardized methodologies are being developed as a potential precursor to regulation. 

Some examples are:

• Commission Delegated Decision (EU) 2024/1441: Supplementing Directive (EU) 2020/2184 of the European Parliament and the Council by laying down a methodology to measure microplastics in water intended for human consumption.
• ISO/DIS 16094-2: Water quality—Analysis of microplastic in water, Part 2: Vibrational spectroscopy methods for waters with low suspended solids content, including drinking water (Under development).

In the United States, the government in California has gone one step further by mandating a four-year period of testing and reporting of microplastics levels in drinking water. California Water Boards are finalizing the sampling and testing methodologies.

Naturally, laboratories conducting microplastics analysis will be interested in these methodologies, even if they are not directly impacted. After all, standardized testing methodology can play a crucial role in harmonizing analysis, leading to more reliable data. Likewise, instrumentation providers are responsible for ensuring their products can assist users in applying these methods. With reference to the Agilent 8700 LDIR, we will explore these methodologies and how fast and automated infrared analysis of microplastics can assist.

Key Learning Objectives:

• What progress has been made in the development of standardized methodologies for microplastics?
• What are some of the key challenges that remain in the implementation of these?
• How might these developments impact other areas and the potential for the implementation of regulations?

Who Should Attend:

• Microplastics researchers
• Microplastics analysts from commercial, QA, or research labs seeking to understand key challenges in Microplastics analysis
• Those interested in microplastics analysis and the development of standardized methodology around the world.

Presenter: Darren Robey (Product Manager: Infrared Imaging, Agilent Technologies)

Presenter: Melissa O'Meara (Forensic Science Consultant, C&EN Media Group)