{"id":39178,"date":"2026-06-09T09:56:36","date_gmt":"2026-06-09T08:56:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.vtei.cz\/2026\/06\/mikroplasty-ve-vodach-prvni-akreditovana-laborator-v-ceske-republice-ve-vuv-tgm-2\/"},"modified":"2026-06-10T10:06:40","modified_gmt":"2026-06-10T09:06:40","slug":"microplastics-in-waters-the-first-accredited-laboratory-in-the-czech-republic-at-the-tgm-wri","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.vtei.cz\/en\/2026\/06\/microplastics-in-waters-the-first-accredited-laboratory-in-the-czech-republic-at-the-tgm-wri\/","title":{"rendered":"Microplastics in waters: The first accredited laboratory in the Czech Republic at the TGM WRI"},"content":{"rendered":"

Microplastics, defined as particles of\u00a0synthetic polymers smaller than\u00a05 mm, represent one of\u00a0the\u00a0most intensively studied environmental issues of\u00a0the\u00a0present day (Fig.\u00a01<\/span>). These ubiquitous particles, arising primarily from mechanical abrasion, fragmentation, or industrial processing of\u00a0plastics, are released into the\u00a0environment in\u00a0large quantities. While early research focused on seas and oceans, attention is now shifting to freshwater ecosystems and drinking water, where they pose significant environmental and health risks [1, 2]. The\u00a0effects of\u00a0microplastics on organisms are complex \u2013 they act as vectors for contaminants sorbed from the\u00a0environment, release chemical additives intentionally incorporated into plastics (such as plasticisers and flame retardants) and may mechanically disrupt tissues and cause chronic inflammation [3]. As a\u00a0result of\u00a0their slow degradation, they readily enter food chains and accumulate in\u00a0biota at all trophic levels [4].<\/span><\/p>\n\"\"<\/a>\n

 <\/p>\n

Fig.\u00a01. Cumulative number of\u00a0scientific publications in\u00a0the\u00a0Scopus database containing the\u00a0keyword microplastic<\/span><\/h6>\n

The\u00a0increasing research interest in\u00a0microplastics is also reflected in\u00a0the\u00a0legislative sphere. European\u00a0legislation requires the\u00a0implementation of\u00a0microplastics monitoring in\u00a0drinking water through an\u00a0amendment to the\u00a0EU Directive on the\u00a0quality of\u00a0water intended for human\u00a0consumption (Commission Decision\u00a02024\/1441). Similar requirements are expected soon for surface waters following the\u00a0adoption of\u00a0the\u00a0relevant Directive of\u00a0the\u00a0European\u00a0Parliament and of\u00a0the\u00a0Council amending Directive 2000\/60\/EC (Water Framework Directive). In\u00a0response to this context, and with the\u00a0aim of\u00a0providing a\u00a0reliable analytical background, a\u00a0specialised Laboratory for Microplastics Analysis was established at the\u00a0Brno branch of\u00a0the\u00a0TGM Water Research Institute (TGM WRI), which has been intensively engaged in\u00a0this field since 2023.<\/span><\/p>\n

In\u00a0the\u00a0field of\u00a0microplastics analysis, two main\u00a0groups of\u00a0methods are key, differing primarily in\u00a0detection limits and output. Vibrational spectroscopy, in\u00a0particular Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and Raman\u00a0spectroscopy are widely used non-destructive methods for the\u00a0analysis of\u00a0microplastic samples. By surface scanning of\u00a0a\u00a0prepared sample, a\u00a0so-called chemical map can\u00a0be obtained, providing precise information on the\u00a0number, size, shape, and chemical composition of\u00a0the\u00a0detected particles (Fig.\u00a02<\/span><\/em>). The\u00a0FTIR method is suitable for the\u00a0quantification and identification of\u00a0particles from a\u00a0size of\u00a05\u00a0\u00b5m [5], whereas Raman\u00a0spectroscopy can\u00a0detect particles down to approximately 300 nm [6], thereby enabling the\u00a0detection of\u00a0nanoplastics. Another possible method for determining the\u00a0presence of\u00a0microplastics is pyrolysis coupled with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry, which, however, leads to the\u00a0destruction of\u00a0the\u00a0analysed sample and provides information only on the\u00a0total mass of\u00a0individual polymer types in\u00a0a\u00a0given sample [7].<\/span><\/p>\n\"\"<\/a>\n

Fig.\u00a02. Chemical map of\u00a0the\u00a0analysed microplastics sample visualised using the\u00a0Microplastic Finder software (Purency)<\/h6>\n

Information on size distribution and shape obtained by spectroscopic methods is also essential for assessing risks to organisms and is therefore crucial for meeting legislative requirements. At the\u00a0Laboratory for Microplastics Analysis at TGM WRI, FTIR spectroscopy was selected as the\u00a0detection method. The\u00a0laboratory has been equipped with a\u00a0\u00b5FTIR spectroscope LUMOS II by Bruker Corp. (Fig.\u00a03<\/span><\/em>). This instrument enables fully automated analysis of\u00a0entire areas (typically a\u00a0filter with a\u00a0diameter of\u00a025 mm) and the\u00a0creation of\u00a0a\u00a0chemical map of\u00a0the\u00a0analysed surface. From the\u00a0resulting map, computational methods can\u00a0automatically identify plastic particles, their shape and size, and, most importantly, their chemical composition, that is, the\u00a0type of\u00a0polymer.<\/span><\/p>\n\"\"<\/a>\n

Fig.\u00a03. From left: sample being analysed in\u00a0the\u00a0\u00b5FTIR spectroscope LUMOS II; processing in\u00a0the\u00a0OPUS software; evaluation of\u00a0the\u00a0content and type of\u00a0microplastics using the\u00a0Microplastic Finder software<\/h6>\n

The\u00a0analysis itself is preceded by a\u00a0relatively complex sampling process \u2013 in\u00a0the\u00a0case of\u00a0water, using a\u00a0cascade of\u00a0filters and, where appropriate, a\u00a0pump (Fig.\u00a04<\/span><\/em>) \u2013 followed by sample preparation. Sample preparation for analysis involves oxidative digestion processes aimed at removing organic residues from samples originating from environmental matrices (see, for example, [8,\u00a09]), complemented by density separation to eliminate the\u00a0remaining inorganic fraction [10].<\/span><\/p>\n\"\"<\/a>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/h6>\n
Fig.\u00a04. Pumping and filtration of\u00a0water from a\u00a0stream for microplastics analysis (left); detail of\u00a0the\u00a0filtration apparatus (right)<\/h6>\n

The entire process of sample preparation and analysis has been standardised and optimised, and in 2025 the laboratory first obtained certification\u00a0<\/span>from the\u00a0Centre for Assessment of\u00a0Laboratories (ASLAB), followed by accreditation from the\u00a0Czech Accreditation Institute (CAI). Both certifications apply to the\u00a0determination of\u00a0microplastics in\u00a0water using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and to the\u00a0sampling of\u00a0water for the\u00a0purpose of\u00a0determining microplastic content. TGM WRI laboratory currently operates the\u00a0first and, to date, only laboratory in\u00a0the\u00a0Czech Republic accredited by CAI and assessed by ASLAB for the\u00a0sampling and analysis of\u00a0the\u00a0quantity, size, and chemical composition of\u00a0microplastics specifically in\u00a0drinking water samples. At the\u00a0same time, the\u00a0laboratory information system (LIS) LABSYST\u00c9M was adapted for sample intake and result recording. Experience gained from national and international projects in\u00a0which the\u00a0laboratory is currently actively involved was directly utilised in\u00a0the\u00a0accreditation process (see Info box<\/em>).<\/span><\/p>\n

The\u00a0Brno branch of\u00a0TGM WRI offers analytical services to a\u00a0wide range of\u00a0clients, including research organisations, laboratories, operators of\u00a0water supply systems and wastewater treatment plants, public authorities, and the\u00a0general public within\u00a0the\u00a0framework of\u00a0commercial services. Thanks to our experience from international and national projects and our certified quality standards, we provide comprehensive services ranging from sample collection and analysis to the\u00a0interpretation of\u00a0results.<\/span><\/p>\n

Systematic monitoring of\u00a0microplastics in\u00a0the\u00a0aquatic environment is an\u00a0essential prerequisite for identifying their pathways of\u00a0entry, assessing ecological risks, and developing strategies to reduce their presence in\u00a0the\u00a0environment. Our laboratory is prepared to provide qualified support in\u00a0this important area of\u00a0water resource and human\u00a0health protection.<\/span><\/p>\n

Overview of ongoing projects at the Brno branch of TGM WRI focused on the detection of microplastics in environmental samples:<\/p>\n\"\"<\/a>\n

Project Mikroplast-IKA<\/em>; Funding: Technology Agency of\u00a0the\u00a0Czech Republic (TA CR), Environment for Life II Programme, No. SS07010295<\/h3>\n

The\u00a0aim of\u00a0the\u00a0project is to quantify microplastics in\u00a0surface waters and to identify their main\u00a0pathways of\u00a0transport into watercourses. The\u00a0initial phase focuses on the\u00a0development and standardisation of\u00a0methodologies for sampling and sample processing from complex matrices, specifically water, sediments, and biota. Subsequent monitoring is targeted at critical sources of\u00a0contamination, such as effluents from wastewater treatment plants and combined sewer overflows, as well as at retention areas such as reservoirs. The\u00a0project outputs will provide a\u00a0robust basis for assessing the\u00a0anthropogenic load of\u00a0microplastics in\u00a0surface waters and will enable the\u00a0effective targeting of\u00a0mitigation measures at critical points within\u00a0catchments.<\/p>\n\"\"<\/a>\n

Project MicroDrink<\/em>; Funding: Interreg Danube Programme, No. DRP0200442<\/h3>\n

The\u00a0main\u00a0objective of\u00a0the\u00a0project is to strengthen institutional capacities and governance processes for the\u00a0prevention of\u00a0microplastic contamination of\u00a0drinking water sources in\u00a0the\u00a0Danube region. The\u00a0project brings together the\u00a0scientific community, decision-making bodies, and operators of\u00a0water infrastructure with the\u00a0aim of\u00a0standardising procedures for monitoring and risk mitigation. A\u00a0key output is the\u00a0sharing and practical evaluation of\u00a0knowledge in\u00a0the\u00a0field of\u00a0sampling and analysis of\u00a0microparticles in\u00a0drinking water. The\u00a0results will support strategic decision-making and the\u00a0implementation of\u00a0preventive measures at the\u00a0transnational level, thereby contributing to the\u00a0protection of\u00a0water resources across eight participating countries.<\/p>\n\"\"<\/a>\n

Project Joint Danube Survey 5<\/em>; Funding:
\nTechnology Agency of\u00a0the\u00a0Czech Republic (TA CR),
\nLong-term Environmental and Climate Perspectives (Centre\u00a0Water), No. SS02030027<\/h3>\n

The\u00a0fifth Joint Danube Survey (JDS5) represents a\u00a0unique scientific expedition focused on a\u00a0comprehensive assessment of\u00a0water quality and biodiversity across 14 countries in\u00a0the\u00a0Danube basin\u00a0and its major tributaries. The\u00a0main\u00a0objective is to obtain\u00a0comparable data on priority pollutants and emerging contaminants that are not included in\u00a0standard national monitoring programmes. An\u00a0innovation of\u00a0JDS5 lies in\u00a0the\u00a0integration of\u00a0advanced methods, such as environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis and the\u00a0systematic monitoring of\u00a0microplastics along the\u00a0entire watercourse. The\u00a0results of\u00a0the\u00a0survey contribute to the\u00a0harmonisation of\u00a0methodologies in\u00a0line with the\u00a0Water Framework Directive and provide a\u00a0scientific basis for updating the\u00a0Danube River Basin\u00a0Management Plan.<\/p>\n

An\u00a0informative article that is not subject to peer review.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Microplastics, defined as particles of synthetic polymers smaller than 5 mm, represent one of the most intensively studied environmental issues of the present day. The increasing research interest in microplastics is also reflected in the legislative sphere. European legislation requires the implementation of microplastics monitoring in drinking water through an amendment to the EU Directive on the quality of water intended for human consumption (Commission Decision 2024\/1441). Similar requirements are expected soon for surface waters following the adoption of the relevant Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Directive 2000\/60\/EC (Water Framework Directive). In response to this context, and with the aim of providing a reliable analytical background, a specialised Laboratory for Microplastics Analysis was established at the Brno branch of the TGM Water Research Institute (TGM WRI), which has been intensively engaged in this field since 2023.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8,"featured_media":39171,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[94,87],"tags":[4169,4170,4168,1484],"coauthors":[4089,174,172,4090,173],"class_list":["post-39178","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-current-issue","category-hydrochemistry-radioecology-microbiology","tag-laboratories","tag-laboratory-for-microplastics-analysis-at-tgm-wri","tag-microplastics","tag-tgm-wri"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.vtei.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/39178","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.vtei.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.vtei.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.vtei.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/8"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.vtei.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=39178"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.vtei.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/39178\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":39206,"href":"https:\/\/www.vtei.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/39178\/revisions\/39206"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.vtei.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/39171"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.vtei.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=39178"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.vtei.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=39178"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.vtei.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=39178"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.vtei.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=39178"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}