Development of in situ continuous in-flow microplastic monitoring techniques using optical and spectroscopic techniques
Dr. Tomoko Takahashi
Researcher
Marine Biodiversity and Environmental Assessment Research Center
Research Institute for Global Change
Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology
*The organization and the title are those when awarded
Research summary
Microplastics (MPs) are serious pollutants in global marine environments, and it is essential to get more specific information of the MPs distribution, composition, and the temporal dynamic change for better understanding. However, the current surveys mainly focus on the surface distribution, and the particle sizes are limited to > 100 µm. To deal with this problem, Dr. Takahashi developed non-contact, label-free, and real-time monitoring method by integrating Raman spectroscopy and holographic imaging system*1. This novel method enables the accurate classification of MPs and other particles. Continuous monitoring in the deep sea becomes possible with the development and operation of in-situ device which is available in the deep sea (> 1000 m). In addition, the detection and classification of tiny MPs (< 100 µm) and algae have been successfully performed by applying coherent-anti Stokes Raman scattering*2. These methods will enable dynamic measurements of MPs at much higher spatial and temporal scales than ever, and it will be expected to establish as fundamental techniques for monitoring early stage of marine pollution.
The image acquisition technique with phenomena of interference and diffraction of light. In this research, it applies to the reconstruction focused images of objects existing at an arbitrary location in a large volume space by analyzing scattered light.
A kind of Raman scattering spectroscopy. By irradiating two different types of light, matching the frequencies difference to the frequency from the sample molecules, and interacting with incident light, a weak Raman signal can be forced to be generated.
The image acquisition technique with phenomena of interference and diffraction of light. In this research, it applies to the reconstruction focused images of objects existing at an arbitrary location in a large volume space by analyzing scattered light.
A kind of Raman scattering spectroscopy. By irradiating two different types of light, matching the frequencies difference to the frequency from the sample molecules, and interacting with incident light, a weak Raman signal can be forced to be generated.
Introduction to Research
