Fast detection and 3D imaging of nanoplastics and microplastics by stimulated Raman scattering microscopy

Nanoplastic pollution represents an increasing concern for the scientific community. However, the identification of tiny nano-/microplastics (smaller than 5 μm) is still a huge challenge. Herein, we report rapid detecting and 3D imaging of nano-/microplastics at the single-particle level via a strategy based on stimulated Raman scattering microscopy. We demonstrate detection of nanoplastics as small as 100 nm and discriminate between different types of nanoplastics using high wavenumber scanning with low wavenumber verification. Nano-/microplastics, such as polyethylene and polypropylene, are detected in atmospheric and human lung tissue samples. This work provides a 3D, single-particle-level nano-/microplastics detection method, holding great potential to facilitate the characterization of nano-/microplastics in the environment and human tissues. By demonstrating the real-world utility of our methodology, we hope to foster wider adoption and understanding of this critical tool.