ISO 16094-2:2025

Overview

ISO 16094-2:2025 is an international standard developed by ISO for the analysis of microplastics in water, specifically focusing on vibrational spectroscopy methods applicable to waters with low suspended solids, including drinking water. This standard establishes the fundamental procedures for detecting, quantifying, and identifying microplastics between 1 µm and 5 000 µm using microscopy combined with vibrational spectroscopy techniques, such as infrared (IR) and Raman spectroscopy. The methods are suitable for various water types with low organic and suspended solid content, ensuring reliable and comparable results across laboratories.

Key Topics

• Scope of Application
  ISO 16094-2:2025 is tailored for the analysis of microplastics in:

  • Drinking water
  • Ultrapure water
  • Raw groundwaters
  • Waters with organic and suspended matter content as low as 1 mg/l

• Vibrational Spectroscopy Techniques
  The standard details the use of:

  • Infrared spectroscopy (including FTIR and ATR modes)
  • Raman spectroscopy (with specified laser wavelengths)
  • Coupling of these techniques with optical microscopy for particle identification and counting

• Microplastic Identification and Quantification
  The document outlines protocols for:

  • Determining microplastic particle size and size distribution
  • Classifying and counting particles automatically
  • Identifying chemical composition of common industrial polymers (e.g., PE, PP, PET, PC, PS, PTFE, PVC, PA, PMMA, PU)

• Sample Handling and Contamination Prevention
  Since microplastic concentrations in these waters are typically low, the standard emphasizes:

  • Rigorous laboratory cleaning protocols
  • Use of non-plastic tools and containers
  • Avoidance of external contamination during sampling and analysis

• Quality Control and Results Reporting

  • Regular use of control blanks and reference materials
  • Validation of instrument performance
  • Detailed requirements for sample reporting and spectral database management

Applications

Implementing ISO 16094-2:2025 has practical value for water quality testing laboratories, regulatory agencies, and environmental researchers concerned with microplastic pollution. Key applications include:

• Drinking Water Quality Assessment
  Ensures accurate monitoring of microplastic content for public health protection.

• Regulatory Compliance
  Facilitates alignment with international water safety standards and supports reporting for governmental and oversight bodies.

• Environmental Monitoring
  Provides robust methodologies for tracking microplastic pollution trends in groundwaters and ultrapure water used in sensitive industrial processes.

• Research and Development
  Offers a validated approach for scientists investigating microplastic sources, distribution, and polymer types in low-turbidity water environments.

Related Standards

For comprehensive analysis and effective laboratory implementation, consider the following related standards:

• ISO 16094-1: General principles for the analysis of microplastics in water
• ISO 6107: Terminology for water quality, including definitions for suspended solids
• ISO 14644-1: Cleanroom classifications, pertinent for laboratory setups handling microplastics
• ISO/IEC Guide 99: International vocabulary of metrology
• ISO 18115-2: Related to analytical techniques in spectroscopy

By integrating ISO 16094-2:2025 with these related standards, organizations can establish a comprehensive quality management system for the detection and analysis of microplastics in water.

Keywords: ISO 16094-2, microplastics analysis, water quality, vibrational spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, drinking water standards, suspended solids, environmental testing, laboratory protocols, polymer identification.