Integration of Microfluidics, Raman Spectroscopy and Electric Sensing for the Detection of Microplastics

Microplastics cause severe environmental issues, damage to ecosystems and harm animal and human health. This project aims to develop low-cost and/or portable microplastic detection platforms. In the proposed project, a particle focusing microfluidic device will be developed and integrated with the Raman spectroscopy equipment at industry partner site to maximize the light scattering effect and achieve high-sensitivity chemical structural analysis of microplastics. The microplastic-focusing microfluidic device will be also integrated with an electro-microfluidic sensor for identification of physical properties of microplastics based on electrical resistance measurement. Three interns will be exposed to an industry-level challenge to perform microplastic focusing, integrating the microplastic-focusing device with Raman spectroscopy and electro-microfluidic detection to facilitate chemical and physical analysis of microplastics. This approach will open new windows of opportunity for the company in exploration and adoption of novel microplastic interrogation techniques using microfluidic devices.

Faculty Supervisor:

Pouya Rezai

Student:

Partner:

Ocean Diagnostics Inc.

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Biotechnology; Water; Environmental Science and Technology

University:

York University

Program: