Optimization of an analytical methodology to determine microplastic contamination in different seaweed groups (Phaeophyceae, Rhodophyta and Chlorophyta)
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Seaweed are primary producers and potential vectors of microplastics (MPs) contamination, yet robust extraction methods that digest complex algal matrices while preserving polymer integrity remain limited. A sequential enzymatic–oxidative digestion was optimized for three seaweeds ( Fucus vesiculosus, Chondrus crispus and Ulva lactuca ). The optimized process involved the initial addition of cellulase (1% w/v, 24 h, 50°C) followed by H₂O₂ (30% v/v, 48–72 h, 65°C). Across nine 0.5 g dry-weight sub-replicates (3 per seaweed), 30 MPs were found (6.7 MPs/g⁻¹). The integrity of polymers was assessed for 12 MPs polymers, with acceptable performance being defined as ≥ 90% recovery and spectroscopic (through FTIR analysis) identifiability. Eight polymers met this threshold (90–101%). Four polymers were adversely affected with the long 72h H₂O₂ incubation, namely: cellulose-acetate (53% recovery), polyamide (61%), acrylic (3%) and rayon (2%). Although polymers remained identifiable, sequential digestion produced mass loss and visible changes (e.g. polyamide opacity, cellulose-acetate brittleness), which may increase fragmentation and miss-identification. Therefore, the protocol is suitable for most common MPs, but not for rayon and acrylic, and should be applied cautiously where cellulose-acetate or polyamide are expected. -Methodology optimized to analyzed MPs contamination in three seaweed groups; - A sequential enzymatic–oxidative digestion preserved most MPs integrity; -Most MPs (8 out of 12) polymers had recovery rates > 90 %
Source: MethodsX
Language: English
Subfield: Pollution
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,260
OpenAlex ID: W7128960789