Photoluminescence‐Based Techniques for the Detection of Micro‐ and Nanoplastics. Issue 70 (21st October 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Capolungo, Chiara; Genovese, Damiano; Montalti, Marco; Rampazzo, Enrico; Zaccheroni, Nelsi; Prodi, Luca
• Is Part Of: Chemistry. Volume 27:Issue 70(2021)
• Page Start: 17529
• Page End: 17541
• Publication Date: 2021-10-21
• Subjects: dye staining -- luminescence -- microplastics and nanoplastics -- plastic pollution -- sensors; Chemistry -- Periodicals; 540
• DOI: 10.1002/chem.202102692
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0947-6539

Abstract

Abstract: The growing numbers related to plastic pollution are impressive, with ca. 70 % of produced plastic (>350 tonnes/year) being indiscriminately wasted in the environment. The most dangerous forms of plastic pollution for biota and human health are micro‐ and nano‐plastics (MNPs), which are ubiquitous and more bioavailable. Their elimination is extremely difficult, but the first challenge is their detection since existing protocols are unsatisfactory for microplastics and mostly absent for nanoplastics. After a discussion of the state of the art for MNPs detection, we specifically revise the techniques based on photoluminescence that represent very promising solutions for this problem. In this context, Nile Red staining is the most used strategy and we show here its pros and limitations, but we also discuss other more recent approaches, such as the use of fluorogenic probes based on perylene‐bisimide and on fluorogenic hyaluronan nanogels, with the added values of biocompatibility and water solubility. Abstract : The detection of micro‐ and nanoplastics (MNPs) lacks recognized quality‐controlled protocols and consequently also of related legislation. Here, photoluminescence‐based techniques that can represent a solution are discussed. Nile Red staining is now the most used strategy, but also recently proposed molecular and nanostructured fluorogenic probes (biocompatible and water soluble) are presented.