Innovation to Detect and Measure Nanoplastics in the Human Body

Plastic pollution has become a serious environmental issue, exacerbated by poor waste management systems that lead to rampant microplastic and nanoplastic contamination. These tiny plastic particles are now found not only in nature but also in our bodies. Therefore, understanding and detecting nanoplastics in the human body is important to identify potential health risks they may cause. In this light, researchers in Austria have developed an innovative method to detect and measure nanoplastics in clear bodily fluids using laser technology.

What Are Nanoplastics?

Plastic waste does not just disappear over time. Instead, it breaks down into smaller pieces through natural processes. Sunlight, wind, water, and even living organisms can break larger plastic pieces into microplastics and nanoplastics. Microplastics range from 1 micrometer to 5 millimeters, while nanoplastics are even smaller as they’re less than 1 micrometer and are often impossible to see with the naked eye or even a regular microscope.

Because of their incredibly tiny size, nanoplastics are considered more dangerous than microplastics. They can pass through the body’s natural defenses, enter our cells, and potentially reach sensitive organs like the brain or heart. Microplastics, though still harmful, are less likely to travel so deeply through the body.

Nanoplastics have recently been detected in human tissues and bodily fluids, raising concerns about how deeply they may be affecting our health. These tiny particles can enter the body through the air we breathe, the food and drinks we consume, or even through contact with our skin. While scientists are still uncovering the full extent of their effects, early research suggests that nanoplastics may trigger oxidative stress, inflammation, and even damage the membranes of our cells.

Measuring Nanoplastics in the Human Body

Researchers from Graz University of Technology in Austria have developed a method to detect nanoplastics in the human body. They use laser-based techniques to analyze clear bodily fluids like blood plasma, urine, and tears to detect nanoplastics.

First, a laser is passed through a liquid sample, which changes the movement of tiny particles. A small portion of the light, known as Raman scattering, changes in frequency when it interacts with a particle. This change helps scientists figure out what the particle is made of and helps identify its size and amount.

“Our method for detecting micro- and nanoplastics can be applied to clear body fluids such as urine, tear fluid, or blood plasma. However, it is also suitable for the continuous monitoring of liquid flows in industry as well as drinking and waste water,” said Harald Fitzek, the lead researcher of the study.

This method is highly sensitive and can detect even the smallest traces of nanoplastics in the human body that previous tools couldn’t find. The researchers also used this technique to explore whether eye implants release nanoplastics. Early results show that under certain conditions, like pressure or laser exposure, these lenses might indeed shed plastic particles. These findings raise important questions about medical safety of the materials used in health devices, pointing to the need for more research.

Responsible and Sustainable Use

The growing presence of plastic particles in the human body, whether micro or nano, should be treated as a serious public health concern. While advancements in detection methods are important, prevention must remain at the core of response. Reducing plastic production and consumption is a crucial step.

Ending plastic pollution requires a systemic shift that prioritizes not just environmental health but also human wellbeing. From policies that steer industry-wide transformation to investment that encourage the innovation and use of safer, more sustainable plastic alternatives, all stakeholders must work together. Ultimately, rethinking how we consume and manage waste should lead to responsible choices that build a healthier and more sustainable future for all.

Editor: Nazalea Kusuma & Kresentia Madina

Dinda Rahmania

Reporter at Green Network Asia | Website | + posts

Dinda is an Assistant of International Partnerships at Green Network Asia. She holds a bachelor’s degree in International Relations from President University. As part of the GNA In-House Team, she supports the organization’s partnerships with international organizations, governments, businesses, and civil society worldwide through digital publications, events, capacity building, and research.