Protocol for the production of micro- and nanoplastic test materials

Abstract Micro- and nanoplastics (MNP) are ubiquitous, but little is known about the risks they pose to human health. Currently available data of limited use for developing relevant risk assessments due poor quality control, lack a standardised approach particle characterisation environmental analysis, test materials that do not reflect those found in environment. A set well-characterised MNP would greatly alleviate this. Here, we present robust method produce, fractionate characterise such PP PVC. Initial size reduction commercial powders or pellets 500 µm was performed using centrifugal mill under cryogenic conditions. Further ball-milling between room temperature -50 °C 1-propanol then reach final sizes. Fractionation into ranges < 1, 1–5, 5–10, 10–30, 90–180 180–300 by sedimentation filtration. Characterisation reference through SLS, SEM–EDX, XRF TGA demonstrated fractions were desired levels contamination from procedure 1 wt%. Stability testing both 0.05 wt% BSA solution showed whilst some agglomeration occurred during storage suspensions stable over 9 months previous reversed.