New technology that offers real-time, on-site detection of nanoplastics from other particles present in water within milliseconds has been developed by a team of researchers from McGill University.

McGill’s artificial-intelligence (AI)-assisted, nano digital in-line holographic microscopy dubbed "AI-Assisted Nano-DIHM," reportedly offers real-time analysis of plastic pollution, differentiating between microplastic pieces, which are between 1 μm and 5 mm, and nanoplastics at just 0.000001 mm.

Graphical abstract. Source: Environmental Science & Technology (2024). DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c10408Graphical abstract. Source: Environmental Science & Technology (2024). DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c10408

"Our research has demonstrated that the AI-Assisted Nano-DIHM can automatically detect and differentiate nanoplastics and microplastics, even when they are coated in other particles, providing a comprehensive understanding of plastic pollution in aquatic ecosystems," the researchers explained.

The team suggests that this technology promises to identify and address pollution "hotspots" more effectively.

An article detailing the technology, "Nanoplastics in water: Artificial intelligence-assisted 4D physicochemical characterization and rapid in situ detection," appears in the journal Environmental Science & Technology.

To contact the author of this article, email mdonlon@globalspec.com