The group standard Water quality—Technical specifications for spectroscopic detection of microplastics abundance (T/CAEPI 109-2025), led by BCRC China, was approved and released by the China Association of Environmental Protection Industry on December 17, 2025. It came into force on January 17, 2026, and was published on the Group Standard Information Platform on April 13. Microplastics (plastic particles of any dimension less than 5 mm or synthetic fibers with a specific length-diameter ratio) are highly recalcitrant to degradation and persist in aquatic environments for long periods, posing a threat to ecosystems and human health. Currently, there are inconsistencies in China’s microplastic testing standards for specific water bodies, making data comparison difficult and complicating pollution assessment and remediation efforts.
This standard specifies the entire process for spectroscopic detection of microplastic abundance in various water bodies. It applies to the detection of microplastics with particle sizes ranging from 10 μm to 5 mm, covering surface water, groundwater, and reclaimed water. The standard clarifies the applicable scenarios, operational procedures, and quality control requirements for various advanced spectroscopic techniques, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of detection data. Led by Professor Li Jinhui’s team and jointly drafted by more than ten organizations, the implementation of this standard will enhance the comparability of monitoring data and provide technical support for microplastic pollution research, risk assessment, and the formulation of prevention and control policies by regulatory authorities.
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