Eurofins Environment Testing offers advanced microplastics and microfibre analysis services to help organisations better understand and manage the environmental impact of their products and operations. Through innovative testing methods developed across the Eurofins network of companies, we assess the microfibre-shedding potential of synthetic textiles and quantify the release of microfibres during the laundering process over the lifespan of a fabric or garment.

Eurofins Environment Testing microplastic testing capabilities

We have developed an innovative new test method to assess the microfibre-shedding potential of commercially-manufactured synthetic textiles such as polyester, acrylic, elastane, and nylon. The test quantifies the number of microfibres likely to be released during the laundry process over the lifespan of a fabric or garment. This test can help you better understand the environmental impact of your products.

Currently, we have developed and verified methods for the analysis of:

  • Potable water, environmental waters (surface water, marine water)
  • Solid samples (soil)
  • Biota samples (oysters, mussels)
  • Environmental samples (sewerage, biosolids)
  • Food samples

Analytical Techniques

There are several analytical methods ranging from microscopy, spectroscopy to thermal analysis that can be used to identify microplastic particles, each with their own capabilities and advantages. The following analytical techniques are offered by laboratories across the global Eurofins network:

  • Direct microscopy (USA, Norway)
  • Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) microscopy (USA, Germany)
  • Laser Direct Infrared (LDIR) Imaging with Attenuated Total Reflectance (ATR) module (Melbourne, Australia)
  • Pyrolysis GC-MS (Norway)

Results will be reported as total numbers of particles/volume and a size distribution (between 20 – 300µm). The laboratory will be able to determine the plastic type by using spectral data and can help to determine the source of the contamination. For particles >300µm the ATR module will be utilised for analysis.

Eurofins Environment Testing provide all necessary bottles and coolers for sampling and shipping back to the laboratory. It is recommended that the samples be collected and returned back to the laboratory, stored at 2 - 6°C.

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