A novel platform using a regenerable SDS-functionalized membrane with AF4-DAD-MALS for online-operated enrichment and detection of polydisperse nanoplastics in biological samples

Abstract

In view of the importance and urgency of elucidating the internal exposure toxicity and transport mechanisms of nanoplastics (NPl) in organisms for assessing their health risks, we developed a novel analytical method that integrates online preconcentration via a sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)-functionalized regenerated cellulose membrane (RCM) with separation and detection using an asymmetric-flow field-flow fractionation system coupled in-line to a diode array detector and a multi-angle light scattering detector (AF4-DAD-MALS system) for the quantification of 60–500 nm NPl in biological matrices. This method boasts high accuracy (recovery: 89–103%), precision (RSD < 5.2%), sensitivity (LOD: 0.5–2.0 µg L⁻¹) and reusability. The method was applied to study the blood circulation of polydisperse NPl. The results showed that larger particles had a prolonged circulation time.