ExactMP™ microplastic reference materials consist of precisely defined microplastic fragments embedded in a transparent, water-soluble pullulan film.
The transparent film allows the particles to be imaged and verified while immobilized within the matrix. The solidified matrix keeps the particles securely in place during handling and shipping. When exposed to water, the film rapidly dissolves, releasing only the microplastic spike particles for clean and controlled additions during method development, validation, and quality control.
 
Production
ExactMP™ samples are produced by dispersing microplastic particles in a pullulan solution prepared with ultrapure water. The suspension is then formed into small circular films (Ø = 4–7 mm) with a thickness of approximately 50-100 µm. During drying, the pullulan matrix solidifies and immobilizes the particles within the transparent film.
 
Particle size ranges
Standard size ranges: 20–50 µm, 20-100 µm, 50-100 µm, 100-200 µm, and 300-500 µm.
Custom size ranges available upon request.
 
Particle concentration
Each indiviudal ExactMP™ sample holds a precise number of particles. Particle concentration increases with decreasing particle size. Expect particle concentrations in the range of:
• 20–50 µm: n = 250-400
• 20–100 µm: n = 200-350
• 50-100 µm: n = 100-250
• 100-200 µm: n = 75-150
• 300-500 µm: n = 50-100
 
Buoyancy kit 
Fragments containing red pigment (PR 254) PP [0.96 g/cm³] and blue pigment (PB 15:3) PET (1.35 g/cm³). 
 
Certificate of Analysis (COA)
All samples are accompanied by a sample-specific certificate of analysis (COA) for each individual sample. The COA includes:
• Polymer composition
• Particle size distribution within size groups
• Number of particles per individual sample.
• Processed and raw data, including micrographs from which the data was derived
 
COAs are accessible via a weblink or QR code printed on each sample label.
 
Download Certificate of Analysis (COA) examples:
• ExactMP™: Fragments (50-100 µm), PE, Fluorescent green.
 
Source material
Our fragments are produced by cryomilling early-stage plastic products, such as pellets, granules, filaments, rods, or tubes. For colored materials, the plastics are additionally melted and pigmented in-house prior to cryomilling. As these source materials are also used in the manufacture of everyday plastic items, the resulting microplastic fragments are not guaranteed to be additive-free and may contain plastic-associated chemicals (PACs), including pigments and other additives. However, by deliberately selecting early-stage source materials, we aim to enhance the environmental realism of the reference material; truly additive-free plastics are unlikely to occur in the natural environment. Further details on the specific source materials used are available upon request.
 
Shipping
Depending on availability, orders are typically prepared within 1–3 weeks of order confirmation.
Once shipped, parcels are delivered worldwide via DHL Express, usually within 1–3 business days depending on the destination.
Shipping costs are automatically calculated at checkout on the basis of location.
 
Contact
Need a quote or have specific requirements?
Contact us to discuss tailored size ranges, concentrations, or additional customization options.