Agilent Technologies Inc. announced the release of its enhanced 8700 LDIR Chemical Imaging System, which has been further optimized for the analysis of microplastics in environmental samples. This newly improved package includes Clarity 1.5 software – a significant upgrade that advances the speed of analysis, enhances spectral acquisition, transformation, and library matching, and provides automated workflows for direct analysis of microplastics on a filter substrate. An innovative, redesigned sample holder allows the on-filter sample to be presented to the instrument more easily and consistently.

The Agilent 8700 LDIR brings high-speed analysis and ease of use to infrared spectroscopy and has rapidly emerged as the benchmark technique for the analysis of microplastics particles. The development of on-filter analysis for this platform marks another leap forward in speed and throughput. The ability to significantly increase testing volumes will allow a greater understanding of the extent of microplastics contamination in the environment and will help facilitate the development of appropriate standards and regulations.

The release of the enhanced 8700 LDIR is expected to strengthen its leadership position in this growing market.