Revolutionary Device Uncovers Microplastics in Your Daily Brew: A UBC Innovation

Researchers from the University of British Columbia have developed a portable and cost-effective device that can detect microplastics as small as one hundredth the width of a human hair in various liquids, including beverages. The device utilizes a wireless digital microscope, green LED light, and an excitation filter to identify microplastics in liquid samples smaller than a drop. The UBC team tested the device on boiled distilled water contained in disposable polystyrene cups for 30 minutes and found that these cups released hundreds of millions of polystyrene particles into the water. Each test costs only 1. 5 cents, making this technology accessible and practical for widespread use. Currently calibrated to detect polystyrene, the device has the potential to measure other plastic types like polyethylene or polypropylene. With easy-to-understand results, this innovation aims to empower both professionals and the general public to monitor plastic particles in real real-world applications.