The proposed standard will focus on the identification, investigation, and cleanup of microparticles.

May 30, 2025

ASTM International’s environmental assessment, risk management, and corrective action committee (E50) has approved the development of a proposed standard that will cover the identification, assessment and cleanup of microparticles (WK94491) found in soil, sediment, surface water and groundwater. 

WK94491 will compile the information that had previously been available on microparticle identification, assessment and cleanup, while introducing the most recent findings on the subject. This included up-and-coming characterization and cleanup of microparticles, including microplastics.

According to ASTM International member Sriram Madabhushi, microparticles are a major environmental and human health concern that can have direct and indirect effects on ecological and human receptors.

The scope of WK94491 will include:

• Identification of microparticles in environmental media;
• Initial characterization of microparticles;
• Best management practices; and,
• Checklists and related documentation proceedings.

ASTM welcomes participation in the development of its standards. Become a member at www.astm.org/JOIN.

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