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Measurement of Micro/Nano-plastics in the Environment
Citation:
Varner, K. Measurement of Micro/Nano-plastics in the Environment. EPA's Weekly Seminar Series at NC A&T State University, Greensboro, NC, February 13, 2023.
Impact/Purpose:
This presentation provides an overview of micro- and nano-plastic analytical method development research conducted at EPA in RTP. As part of the EPA weekly seminar, my lecture will serve in part as inspiration for students to consider careers in science. By engaging students to learn about method development, characterization, and evaluation of monitoring parameters for contaminants and hazardous waste, I will encourage them to pursue fields of study for advancing analytical techniques in the environmental field.
Description:
Presentation on method and monitoring development that involves the detection, speciation, and identification of emerging contaminants, including nanomaterials and micro/nanoplastics, in various media. Discussion will focus on current work analyzing micro and nanoplastics which is performed utilizing a scanning electron microscope (SEM), single particle inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (sp-ICP/MS), and pyrolysis gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy (pyro-GC/MS). These instruments are used in conjunction for the characterization of emerging contaminants, as they affect various environmental media including water, soil, and plants in daily exposure and effect on animals and humans.
