Mass spectrometry for the characterization of micro- and nanoplastics

Project Information

MS4Plastics

Grant agreement ID: 101023205

DOI

10.3030/101023205

Project closed

EC signature date 6 April 2021

Start date 1 September 2022

End date 22 March 2025

Funded under

• EXCELLENT SCIENCE - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions

Total cost

€ 178 320,00

EU contribution

€ 178 320,00

Coordinated by

VLAAMSE INSTELLING VOOR TECHNOLOGISCH ONDERZOEK N.V.
Belgium

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - MS4Plastics (Mass spectrometry for the characterization of micro- and nanoplastics)

Reporting period: 2022-09-01 to 2024-08-31

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

Plastic pollution is an escalating global environmental challenge, with increasing concern over the degradation of plastics into microplastics and nanoplastics. These particles, especially those in the low micrometre (µm) and nanometre (nm) size range (1 nm – 20 µm), are extremely difficult to detect and quantify due to their small size and complex behavior in biological and environmental matrices. Of particular concern is their presence in the food chain, such as in edible fish and shellfish, posing potential risks to human health and food safety. Existing analytical methods often fall short in sensitivity, specificity, and throughput for routine detection of these particles at trace levels.

The detection and characterization of micro- and nanoplastics in food is essential to understand exposure routes and inform risk assessment and regulatory policies. As consumption of seafood continues to rise globally, so does the urgency to address potential contamination and its implications for public health. Developing robust, reliable analytical protocols for these emerging contaminants is critical for environmental monitoring, consumer protection, and supporting the transition to safer and more sustainable materials and packaging practices.

The overall objective of the MS4Plastics - Mass spectrometry for the characterization of micro- and nanoplastics” project is to open up new frontiers in the sample pre-treatment and pre-concentration protocols, as well as characterization of low µm-range MPs and NPs (MNPs) in fish and shellfish samples by complementary analytical methods being ICP-MS operated in (i) single-event mode for the ultra-fast monitoring of transient signals (spICP-MS) and (ii) smart hyphenation strategies, combined with size-based fractionation techniques, as well as pyrolysis–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (Py-GC-MS). Another key objective of MS4Plastics was to support the professional growth and development of the researcher.

The MS4Plastics project successfully established proof-of-concept for advanced protocols that significantly improve the detection and characterization of micro- and nanoplastics in complex biological samples. The fellow developed a strong interdisciplinary skill set and built strategic collaborations that enhanced both her scientific maturity and the visibility of the host institution. The results contribute valuable tools and knowledge to the broader effort of assessing plastic pollution’s impact on human health and the environment, while also laying the groundwork for future regulatory standards and innovations in analytical methodology.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

The MS4Plastics project successfully addressed the critical analytical challenges related to the detection and characterization of micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) in edible fish and shellfish. The work performed was organized into five integrated work packages (WPs), each contributing to the development of advanced methodologies, cross-disciplinary training, and broad dissemination of results.

WP1 – Sample preparation procedures: In the first phase of the project, the fellow developed and optimized pre-treatment protocols for reliable extraction of MNPs spiked in seafood matrices. Key milestones included the establishment of optimal extraction conditions and the preparation of high-quality MNP extracts from edible fish and shellfish, which formed the basis for analytical development in WPs 2 and 3.

WP2 – spICP-MS development and platform integration: This WP focused on adapting single-particle ICP-MS (spICP-MS) for MNP detection. The fellow optimized instrument parameters for single-event analysis and developed complementary size-based fractionation technique such as Field-Flow Fractionation (FFF) coupled to multi angle light scattering and offline coupling to Pyr-GC-MS instead spICP-MS.

WP3 – Py-GC-MS development and integration: The fellow developed a Pyrolysis-GC-MS method for chemical identification and quantification of MNPs that can be further transferred to the seafood samples. Optimization steps included temperature ramp settings, pyrolysis conditions, and calibration with reference materials.

WP4 – Specific research training and management: Throughout the fellowship, the researcher received targeted training at VITO and partner institutions, including UGent, AM&S Research, and POLITO. This training covered analytical instrumentation, data evaluation, and nanometrology, strengthening the fellow’s expertise in advanced MNP analysis.

WP5 – Dissemination, Exploitation, and Communication: The project’s impact extended beyond scientific research through proactive dissemination and outreach activities.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

The MS4Plastics project significantly advanced the detection of micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) in seafood, developing protocols capable of identifying particles below 5 µm—beyond the reach of standard techniques like µFTIR. Through five integrated work packages, the fellow optimized sample preparation, adapted spICP-MS and Py-GC-MS methods, and validated workflows now implemented in the Nano2Trace analytical platform at VITO.

These innovations support EU goals under the Green Deal and Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability to enable more accurate environmental and food safety monitoring in the future. The validated Py-GC-MS method and Nano2Trace platform offer clear potential for standardization and commercial services in regulatory and industrial contexts.

The project also had a strong career impact to the fellow, equipping her with advanced technical and transferable skills and leading to her long-term integration at VITO as a research scientist.

The project’s results were disseminated through high-impact scientific conferences (e.g. SETAC, EGU, isFFF2024), public outreach events (e.g. Science is Wonderful, Nerdland, Dag van de Wetenschap), and key European research networks (e.g. EU NanoSafety Cluster, Priority, Norman). These efforts ensured engagement with a broad range of stakeholders, including regulatory bodies, analytical labs, industry, and policymakers, increasing the uptake potential of the project’s outputs.

Communication activity: MSCA 2024 Conference – April 2024

Communication activity: Science is Wonderful 2023 – March 2023

Communication activity: Dag van de Wetenschap – November 2022

Dissemination: Annual Conference Marie Curie Alumni Association – March 2024

Dissemination: SETAC Europe 34th Annual Meeting – May 2024

Final event MS4Plastics – Round table on nanoplastics analysis – March 2025

Dissemination: EGU2023 – April 2023