Sustainable Analytical Approaches for Microplastics in Wastewater, Sludge, and Landfills: Challenges, Fate, and Green Chemistry Perspectives

A critical discussion is presented on the analysis of MPs, encompassing an in-depth examination of analytical methodologies, challenges in sample preparation, and potential solutions will be presented. Techniques such as Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman Spectroscopy, and Pyrolysis-GC-MS (Py-GC-MS) are highlighted for their effectiveness in MP identification, combined with treatment approaches like density separation, enzymatic digestion, and oxidation. MPs appear in various forms, including synthetic fibers, microbeads, and fragmented particles, with their distribution being influenced by polymer types .Another essential component is the determination of MP size, which is largely dependent on analytical equipment detection limits and resolution. Most studies focus on MPs ranging from 20–50 µm to a few millimeters by FTIR , with limited research addressing MPs smaller than 0.1 µm, known as nanoplastics (NPs)using Py-GC-MS. Lastly, sustainable management approaches for addressing the worldwide problem of plastic pollution will be presented.