PolAR-U2T - ACHEM Group

Read about our mision, vision and quality policy

“Polymer Analysis and Research” is a research laboratory at the University of La Laguna (Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain) specialized in microplastics determination in water. With cutting-edge instrumentation, rigorous protocols, and a highly qualified multidisciplinary team, we offer reliable and precise analysis from sampling to quantification. Our mission: science, innovation, and environmental commitment in line with current microplastic regulations.

Interest in the determination of microplastics in water or other matrices? Contact us for a customized quote tailored to your needs.

What are microplastics?

They are small, water-insoluble solid particles composed partially or entirely of synthetic polymers or chemically modified natural polymers. They range in size from 1 µm to 5 mm in their longest dimension, except in the case of fibers, whose length is ≤ 15 mm and whose length-to-thickness ratio is > 3.
They can be classified as primary, when they are intentionally manufactured with that size, and as secondary, when they derive from the fragmentation of larger plastic objects.

They are of concern because

They are very small, easily ingested and transferred through the food chain.

They are highly resistant to (bio)degradation.

They degrade progressively, turning into nanoplastics.

They are virtually impossible to eliminate from the environment.

Microplastics in drinking water: Current legal framework

Directive (EU) 2020/2184 on the quality of water intended for human consumption:

Recognizes the need to include microplastics on a “watch list” given the public and scientific concern for health reasons.

Establishes January 12, 2029, as the deadline for submitting a report on the potential threat posed by microplastics to sources of water intended for human consumption, as well as on the potential health risks associated with them.

It was supplemented by Delegated Decision (EU) 2024/1441 by establishing a methodology for determining microplastics in water intended for human consumption.