Work Item
ASTM WK87463
New Test Method for Spectroscopic Identification and Quantification of Microplastic Particles in Water Using Infrared (IR) Spectroscopy
1. Scope
1.1 This test method provides for the identification and quantification of microplastic particles in municipal raw wastewater influent, treated effluent from a wastewater treatment plant, ambient waters, finished drinking water, and bottled water.
1.2 This test method is designed to distinguish plastic particles in water that range in size from 20 µm-5 mm and index particle types using visual microscopy for particle counts and infrared (IR) spectroscopy for chemical identification of counted particles. IR spectroscopy can include, but is not limited to, Fourier transform IR (FTIR), laser direct infrared (LDIR) imaging, and other techniques capable of measuring IR spectra from particles in this size range.
1.3 This test method applies to all microplastic particles that exhibit absorption and reflection of light applicable for FTIR microscopy.
Keywords
IR Spectroscopy
Rationale
The title is changed from the previous work item title to only include IR. Raman will be handled in a second work item. This text represents an almost complete rewrite compared to the initial ballot several years ago. Therefore, because the title change changes the scope of the method, we are balloting this as if it has never been balloted before (no track changes). This new draft attempts to harmonize the ASTM method with the California SOPs already in CA regulation.
The title and scope are in draft form and are under development within this ASTM Committee.
Work Item Status
Date Initiated: 08-10-2023
Technical Contact: William Lipps