In situ Detection of Microplastics: Single Microparticle-electrode Impacts.

Particle-impact electrochemistry is employed to study spherical polyethylene microparticles suspended in an aqueous solution. This electrochemical method detects polyethylene microparticles impacting on a carbon fiber electrode generating a transient current response or 'spike'. We interpret the physio-chemical origin of the spikes and accurately identify particle size distributions and concentrations for microparticles of sizes 1-10 μm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]