Proposal for Simple Quantification Method for Textile-Derived Microplastics Through Comparison of TOC and Py–GC/MS Method

Abstract

This study reports the applicability of total organic carbon (TOC) analysis as a simpler and more efficient alternative for microplastic quantification. Comparative analysis of TOC and pyrolysis–gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (Py–GC/MS) methods was conducted on microplastics released from polyester 100% and polyester/cotton (60/40) blended fabrics. The results revealed a significant quantitative correlation between the two methods, with minor variations attributed to fiber composition differences. For example, in the case of the polyester 100%, TOC analysis showed microplastic content ranging from 70.4 to 82.6 ppm, with an average of 74.6 ppm, while Py–GC/MS analysis showed a range of 68.2 to 88.2 ppm, with an average of 75.7 ppm. In addition, TOC analysis demonstrated significant advantages in terms of time and cost efficiency, making it highly suitable for large-scale environmental monitoring and industrial applications. As a result, the findings of this study on the TOC analysis method are expected to provide practical insights for managing microplastics from textile products, environmental monitoring, and proposing policy alternatives.