Scientific Publications

A comparative analysis of 2D, visible light imaging technologies for describing the physical properties of micro- and mesoplastics (0.5 to 50 mm)

Back to Scientific Publications

March 2026, article in a peer review,
Marine Pollution Bulletin

Naddi Liese, Peter Puskic, Sarah-Jeanne Royer and Merel Kooi

  • Publication type: Article in a peer review
  • Publication journal : Marine Pollution Bulletin
  • Publication date: March 2026
  • Collaborators : - Hydrology and Environmental Hydraulics Group, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands - The Ocean Cleanup, Rotterdam, the Netherlands - Aquatic Ecology and Water Quality Management Group, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands - The Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia - The Centre for Marine Socioecology, Hobart, Australia - Earth Systems and Global Change Group, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands
  • DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2026.119580

Abstract

This study evaluates three visible-light imaging methods; ImageJ, the Saturna Imaging System (Ocean Diagnostics), and the Segmentation Model (The Ocean Cleanup), for characterizing 2D properties of micro- and mesoplastics (0.5–50 mm) collected from the North Pacific Garbage Patch. Their performance was compared with traditional manual counting in terms of accuracy, efficiency, and cost. Manual analysis remains the most accurate for particle counts and type classification but is highly labor-intensive, requiring twice the processing time of imaging systems and providing only broad size-class information. In contrast, 2D imaging technologies offer rapid, user-friendly, and adaptable workflows that generate detailed measurements of particle size, shape and color. These systems reduce human error and provide harmonized outputs. The incorporation of 2D imaging technologies can support future research projects, reduce intensive work in the lab, and provide detailed information about the properties of plastic particles’ actual size and shape distribution.