Presentation Profile
Quantifying microplastics in Texas bays and estuaries using pyrolysis GC-MS
Currently Scheduled: 10/14/2025 - 12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
Room: Daffodil
Main Author
Zhanfei Liu - The University of Texas at Austin
Abstract:
Pyrolysis GC/MS has become the “go-to” tool for quantifying microplastics in environmental samples, yet there are many challenges in sample pretreatment in order to isolate the plastics from the sample matrix, and analytically as well. In this talk, I’ll specifically talk about our recent experience dealing with plankton tow samples from Texas bays and estuaries using pyrolysis GC/MS. I will also talk about how pyrolysis GC/MS can be used to identify additives or plastic degradation products, in addition to plastic identification and quantification.
