PyHarmony: Development and harmonization of pyrolysis GC-MS methods for the identification and quantification of micro- and nanoplastics

Goal

In the PyHarmony project, which is coordinated by TNO (Environmental Modeling Sensing and Analysis department), researchers from TNO, KWR, Rijkswaterstaat, UvA and NEN are identifying the factors that disturb current analysis methods. The aim is to develop an improved method for the identification and quantification of MNP. They focus on the most health-relevant particle size, smaller than <10 μm.

Method

First, they will develop the method. They use different plastic types, different particle sizes and different aging states (virgin and weathered). They will examine the influence of these factors on different thermoanalytical methods, including pyrolysis coupled to gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (Py-GC-MS). Advanced data analysis will be based on machine learning by KWR.

The researchers then use a proficiency test to compare the method between laboratories to ensure that the developed method is harmonized across a wide variety of systems. Five environmental samples, including soil, water, and air, will be used. The proficiency test is organised and coordinated by KWR.

Finally, this study will connect with international projects and normalisation initiatives to ensure the method is widely accepted and implemented , including in routine analysis labs.

Expected results

This project will result in an improved and harmonized method to reliably identify and quantify MNP in environmental matrices, with a focus on particles smaller than 10 μm. A much greater understanding of the influence of the matrix, weathering and plastic composition will be gained. The method will also be demonstrated to provide reliable and comparable results, independent of the equipment. This is essential for proper human risk assessment, policy making and further understanding MNP chemistry..

This project description has been derived from the website of ZonMw.