Provision of a chemical imaging microplastic analysis system for use

Type and scope of the service 

For the analysis of microplastic samples (from water, fish and sediment), we are looking for the possibility of using an analysis device that quickly records microplastics qualitatively and quantitatively (for example, by means of area scans of filtered samples on filters). The samples will be processed at the Institute for Institute of Waste Management and Circularity and transferred to filters (including remaining matrix components). The analysis can be carried out by personnel from the Institute for Institute of Waste Management and Circularity (trained by the contractor) or by the contractor's own personnel.

The analysis should be based on spectroscopic methods using chemical imaging (FTIR imaging or Raman imaging, LDIR or similar microscope). The aim is to achieve the most automated, reproducible and reliable detection of microplastics possible, with a focus on particles between 100 µm and 1000 µm, using established standards and data formats.

Since sample volumes and compositions vary greatly, and the respective preparation processes in the laboratory, the scope of the required subsamples and the measurable sample quantity must be evaluated in conjunction with the measuring device, the exact number of measurements required can only be roughly estimated and is likely to be between 100 and 300 measurements. These are to be carried out over a period of 15 months. The device should be readily accessible for measurements, as measurements are planned depending on sampling in flowing waters, which are influenced by, among other things, unpredictable hydrological conditions.


Technical and functional requirements:

The system offered must meet the following minimum requirements:

  • Area analysis of microplastic particles:

    • The device must be capable of detecting/scanning and analyzing microplastic particles and fibers across the entire surface of filter samples.

  • Suitable spectral range:

    • The spectral range must enable the identification of all relevant microplastics (e.g. in the mid-infrared range for FTIR or in the visible to near-infrared range for Raman).

  • Resolution:

    • The resolution should be suitable for the analysis of microplastics > 100 µm. A lateral resolution of 10 µm is desirable to be able to detect fibers.

  • Automation and software control:

    • The device must have a high degree of automation (e.g. automatic particle detection, spectrum acquisition, identification and quantification).

    • All control must be carried out via a software solution.

  • Plastic reference database:

    • An integrated spectral database for identifying plastic types must be available.

    • The database must contain common plastics (PE, PP, PS, PET, PVC, PA, PU, PC EVA, etc.) and should ideally be expandable.

  • Analysis speed / imaging performance:

    • An area of 1 cm² must be able to be analyzed within a maximum of 2.5 hours with a lateral resolution >50 µm.

  • Offline evaluation:

    • At least one software license for offline particle analysis (after completion of measurement) must be available to use for at least 3 months after completing the last measurement. 

    • Alternatively: unrestricted remote access to a computer with the appropriate software for the same period

  • Open data formats and interfaces:

    • The export options must support open and common standards (e.g. ENVI, .spc, ASCII formats) to enable further processing in third-party systems.

  • Sample carrier management and remote access:

    • The system should offer the option of placing several filters or sample carriers in the device at the same time. 

    • It must be possible to start and monitor measurements remotely (e.g. via a network connection or web interface).

  • Sample preparation and location requirements:

    • The location of the device should be as close as possible to the Institute for Waste Management and Circularity at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (Muthgasse 107, 1190 Vienna). Transporting already filtered samples without losing particles from the filter is extremely difficult and only possible over distances of up to 10 minutes walking time.

    • Alternatively, it must be ensured that the samples can be filtered and prepared in a microplastic-free laboratory room on site (measuring device). Here too, short travel distances are necessary for efficient work.

Awarding authority: 

University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna 
Institute of Waste Management and Circularity
Attn: Ms Elisabeth Schmied
Muthgasse 107, 3rd floor
1190 Vienna

Award principle:

The selection of the bid is based on the best bidder principle and is ranked as follows:

  • - Quality of the measurement results and speed of measurement
  • - Accessibility and availability of the device
  • - Price

Bid submission: until 31.08.2025

Electronic bids can be submitted at: elisabeth.schmied(at)boku.ac.at 

Written bids must be submitted to the awarding authority by this time.