The Invisible Threat in Lab Water: Effective Solution for Microplastic Contamination

Microplastics in water and the environment represent a growing concern among environmental professionals. Detected in tap water, bottled water, and even human tissues, these particles are suspected of causing long-term health problems. Authorities and professionals are currently developing new regulations to reduce microplastic pollution in the future. Microplastics also pose potential interference with sensitive analyses, creating uncertainty in laboratory settings.

Despite the introduction of various water purification systems, microplastics have not been a primary focus in the past. The levels of microplastics in different water sources remain unknown in many areas, necessitating stringent purification methods to ensure contamination-free laboratory water. Recent studies demonstrate how advanced technologies can reduce microplastic content below detection limits while preventing particle introduction during purification.

The Arium Pro VF system from Sartorius was put through tests to remove microplastic particles from normal tap water, deionized water or other suitable water sources using two different test setups and prevent the particles from causing any challenges in laboratory work.

Experimental Validation

1. Leaching Tests

Seven procedural blank samples established the method’s limit of detection (LOD = mean₇ + 3×σ₇). Using μ-Raman microscopy (532 nm laser, 20x magnification), researchers identified seven polymer types through spectral matching (>70% similarity): PE, PP, PTFE, PS, EVA, PA, and PET.

The first test setup demonstrated that no microplastic contaminations were leached from the device when deionized water was introduced. Samples of various water types were analyzed using μ-Raman microscopy (532 nm laser, 20x magnification). Results showed all samples contained particles below the method’s limit of detection (LOD).

2. Spike Recovery Studies

The system efficiently removed microplastic particles from water spiked with high amounts of polystyrene (PS) microspheres. Results for the two analyses of water spiked with PS particles show that particles were clearly detected before subsequent water purification. Particles did not get transferred into the final product water post-purification, with no washout observed even after flushing with clean water.

System Specifications

The Arium Pro VF system incorporates multiple contamination control features:

• UV lamp (185/254 nm) for TOC reduction
• Continuous conductivity monitoring
• Ultrafilter final polishing stage
• Closed-loop Arium BagTank storage
   

Key operational advantages include multi-stage filtration cartridges, an intuitive touchscreen interface with favorites function, and optional PTFE-free tubing to eliminate potential contamination sources.

Cost Efficiency & Sustainability

Compared to bottled water alternatives, investing in a system for in-house water purification offers significant financial benefits, with cost savings realized within five months for laboratories using two liters of water per day. This approach aligns sustainability goals by eliminating the need for external water sources.

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Addressing Microplastic Contamination in Your Lab Water

The system meets ASTM Type I water standards (0.055 μS/cm) with proven microplastic removal from feed water, ensuring a high purity level for laboratory use.

Download the Application Note for complete methodology details and test results: https://sar.to/ariumpro-labonlineau.