PUREEF-Y – InPlasTwin Workshop 2

On 19 January 2026, the online workshop “Advanced Spectroscopic Approaches for Microplastic Detection and Characterization” was held via Microsoft Teams as part of the joint dissemination and knowledge-exchange activities of the participating EU research projects

The workshop brought together experts and researchers to present and discuss state-of-the-art spectroscopic techniques for the detection, identification, and characterization of microplastics. The event opened with welcome remarks and housekeeping by Kathy Christoforou (Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute). This was followed by introductory presentations outlining relevant EU research initiatives, including the InPlasTwin Project presented by Janja Vidmar (Jožef Stefan Institute) and the PUREEF-Y Project presented by Gotelenne Piaton (CMMI).

The technical programme focused on advanced spectroscopic and imaging methods for microplastics analysis and included the following expert presentations:

• “Tracking Microplastics with Laser-based Infrared Imaging”
  Olga Novillo Sanjuan, PhD, Technical University of Denmark (DTU)
• “Automated Microplastics Analysis with Focal Plane Array-Based FTIR Microscopy and Advanced Image Analysis”
  Genna-Leigh Geldenhuys, PhD, Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute (CMMI)
• “High-throughput Microplastic Analysis Using QCL-based Infrared Microscopy”
  André Marcel Bienfait, PhD, Institute of Marine Research (IMR), Norway
• “Raman Spectroscopy for Microplastic Identification”
  Michaël Grelaud, PhD, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB)

The workshop concluded with an interactive Q&A and brainstorming session, encouraging discussion on methodological challenges, data quality, and the harmonisation of spectroscopic approaches for microplastics research.

Key Takeaways

• Advanced spectroscopic techniques, including FTIR, QCL-based infrared microscopy, laser-based imaging, and Raman spectroscopy, are essential tools for accurate microplastic detection and characterisation.
• Automation and high-throughput analytical approaches significantly enhance efficiency, reproducibility, and data comparability in microplastics research.
• Combining imaging technologies with advanced image analysis improves particle identification across diverse environmental matrices.
• Harmonisation of analytical methodologies and quality assurance practices remains a key challenge and priority for the European research community.
• Continued collaboration and knowledge exchange are crucial for advancing standardised approaches and supporting evidence-based environmental policy.

Overall, the workshop strengthened scientific capacity, promoted the uptake of advanced analytical methods, and supported collaboration within the European microplastics research community