At the Chemistry for Environment & Health (CEH) group, we are at the forefront of research on micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs), with a particular focus on advancing Pyrolysis-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (Py-GC-MS) techniques. Our pioneering work in this area has enabled the detection and quantification of plastic particles in human and environmental samples. We specialize in overcoming analytical challenges, such as characterizing diverse polymer profiles and mixtures, and are dedicated to improving state-of-the-art methodologies.
At the Chemistry for Environment & Health (CEH) group, we are at the forefront of research on micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs), with a particular focus on advancing Pyrolysis-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (Py-GC-MS) techniques. Our pioneering work in this area has enabled the detection and quantification of plastic particles in human and environmental samples. We specialize in overcoming analytical challenges, such as characterizing diverse polymer profiles and mixtures, and are dedicated to improving state-of-the-art methodologies.
Our facilities include advanced instrumentation, such as Py-GC-MS instruments and a high-resolution Quadrupole Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometer (QToF-MS) with APCI source coupling. In addition, our laboratories are fully equipped for sample preparation and handling, while our expertise extends to chemometrics, machine learning, and cheminformatics for model development. In addition, we also develop high-throughput high-resolution mass spectrometry (HR-MS) non-target and suspect screening methods to detect plastic additives in anthropogenic materials and in different environmental, human and animal matrices.
Through collaborative projects like Momentum, POLYRISK, MLIdent, FLES, and AURORA and Marie Curie training networks such as Limnoplast, we explore the environmental and human health impacts of MNPs, developing standardized protocols and innovative methods to address this pressing global issue.
Projects:
Momentum (Marja Lamoree) “Microplastics and Human Health Consortium”
POLYRISK (Marja Lamoree) “Risks of microplastic and nanoplastic particles - Understanding human exposure and health hazard of micro- and nanoplastic contaminants in our environment”
MLIdent (Frederic Béen, Marja Lamoree) “Harnessing machine learning to improve identification and quantification of micro- and nanoplastics”
FLES (Virissa Lenters) “Fed with a side of microplastics: interventions to reduce plastic exposure via infant formula and human milk”
LIMNOPLAST (Marja Lamoree) “Microplastics In Europe’s Freshwater Ecosystems: from sources to solutions”.