Microplastic analysis-are we measuring the same? Results on the first global comparative study for microplastic analysis in a water sample.

This paper presents the results of the first international comparative study of commonly applied analytical methods for microplastic analysis. Although it was shown that the comparability between previously published studies is highly limited, there are ambitious efforts regarding the standardization of microplastic analysis. This comparative study serves as a first step to assess the suitability of frequently used methods in microplastic research.

MTBE (methyl tertiary-butyl ether) in groundwaters: monitoring results from Germany.

In Germany information on the occurrence of MTBE in groundwaters is scarce. In order to assess the German situation, in 1999 a monitoring programme on MTBE in groundwater was set up. Within this survey 170 wells were examined, which are used as groundwater monitoring points or which are foreseen for drinking water extraction in emergency cases or for irrigation purposes.