Abstract: A method of removing microplastic particles from a water-based liquid, comprising the exposure of the liquid to a solid surface on which is retained a sorbitan monooleate surfactant, in a concentration suitable for entrapping substantially all microplastic particles. The method is useful for removing microplastic particles and microfibres from fresh and saline natural waters, effluent water, such as grey water, storm water and waste waters from industrial processes, in addition to any kind of product based on water, such as mineral waters, milk, fruit juices, beverages, pharmaceutical and veterinary products.

Abstract: Apparatus for monitoring particulate material in a fluid comprising a passageway (17), through which fluid to be monitored is passed, at least a portion (24) of the boundary of the passageway (17) being translucent to enable radiation to pass through that portion (24). A camera (40) is arranged to receive such radiation and is constructed to generate electrical signals representative of the images it receives. Image analysis means (57) are connected to receive those electrical signals and to provide data from them relating to the particulate material contained within the fluid.