BRAVE Analytics, a startup in Austria, releases a sensor for the continuous size determination and
simultaneous chemical analysis of particles and microplastic particles in water.
Based on a proprietary measuring principle, OptoFluidic Force Induction (OF2i), the particle sizer
monitors nano- and microparticles in water as the sample is pumped through a measuring cell. The
setup uses a weakly focused Laguerre-Guassian laser beam to detect and track particles in a size
range from 100 nanometers to several micrometers. Alongside measurement of particle size and
particle concentration, individual particles up to 50 µm are analyzed using Raman spectroscopy as
they pass through the measuring cell.
The combination of the OF2i particle sizing method and Raman spectroscopy enables quantitative
and qualitative analysis of micro- and nanoparticle properties continuously and in real time. While
OF2i® technology uses elastic scattering radiation to characterize particles, inelastic scattering
radiation (Raman scattering) is used for chemical analysis. This correlative OF2i-Raman method
has the potential to detect particles that are difficult to access for normal Raman microscopy (<500
nm). Sample is analyzed continuously on a single-particle basis and with a sample throughput of
approx. 60 particles per minute.
First proof-of-concept: PS particles
Following a research project on nanoplastics in the medical field, the Austrian startup is now
focused on the detection and identification of microplastic particles in environmental samples.
Figure 1 shows the evaluation of three microplastic particles captured with the OF2i-Raman device
as a proof of concept. The light scattered by the particles was analyzed by Raman spectroscopy and
the experimental Raman spectra were compared with a reference spectrum (Figure 1c). This
comparison allowed direct identification of the particles as polystyrene particles.
Co-founder and CEO Christian Hill: “Since OF2i measures continuously, allows a combination with
material analysis using Raman spectroscopy and has a high sensitivity for very low concentrations,
we see great potential for use in water analysis. BRAVE Analytics is open to collaborations,
research projects and test installations. It is an exciting time for new technologies in this field.”
Coupling with ICP-MS
In cooperation with an Austrian university, the coupling of an OF2i-Raman laboratory device with
an ICP-MS was also tested. Low-concentration samples were trapped and concentrated with OF2i,
identified using Raman and then analyzed using ICP-ToF-MS. Scientific publications are being
prepared.
