POLARSENSE: Polar Online Airborne Nano and Microplastic Sensing and Environmental Monitoring

 

We present an automated tool for long-term sampling of nano and microplastics (NMP) and associated chemicals in remote areas, addressing a critical need for cost-effective, high-temporal-resolution data collection. A major challenge in NMP research is overcoming the financial and time constraints of intensive sampling campaigns.

To address this, we deployed two devices in the Arctic at the Ny-Ålesund research base, focusing on enhancing understanding of polar NMP distribution and transport mechanisms. The auto-sampling system utilises active air sample containers, NanoTank’s, to collect airborne particles through percolation in a liquid trap. Stepper motors, linear actuators, and controllers enable the movement of NanoTanks for automated collection of time-series samples at set intervals.

The first systems were deployed in October 2024, and the collected samples will be analysed by pyrolysis gas chromatography mass spectrometry (pyGC/MS) for nanoplastics, Raman spectroscopy for microplastics, and Liquid Chromatography/Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) for persistent organic pollutant analysis (PFAS focus).

This setup alleviates the need for porous filters that can clog given varied exposure levels. Our system will help to expand the capabilities of atmospheric research and allow us to increase our datasets and understanding of temporal and spatial distributions of NMP.