The microplastic sensor is a self-contained, autonomous, IA-based optical device designed to examine a continuous flow of water. The main function is to detect microscopic polymer particles or microplastics (up to 150 microns), and distinguish them from other natural particles common in sea and ocean waters.

The sensor uses an optical system based on laser light to detect the passage of particles through a hydraulic circuit through which water samples are circulated. When a particle is detected, the sensor enables an image acquisition system that takes multiple images of the detected particle with white light illumination, although the system is originally designed to use ultraviolet light in case those particles require fluorescence to be analyzed and classified.

The sensor has integrated a small high-capacity computer to run artificial intelligence algorithms in real time. The images of the particles are immediately processed and the algorithm indicates whether the element is a microplastic or another natural particle (sand, algae, etc.). If there is a positive detection of a particle, the algorithm classifies it as a microplastic or other particle (depending on the algorithm training) and the computer stores the image and the metadata in a dedicated cloud system.

The microplastic sensor includes a web application for remote control, where it is possible to modify several operating features in order to improve image visualization or particle detection. In addition, the application allows the visualization of the processed images, as well as several graphs and statistics on the presence of microplastics in the analyzed samples. This application is not freely accessible, but the developers only grant access to end users working with the microplastic sensor, guaranteeing data privacy and sensor security.

The sensor can be used at the laboratory level or can be deployed in a real location. In either case, the sensor is housed in an IP67 suitcase to ensure the protection of all internal elements in corrosive environments or those exposed to hazardous meteorological conditions.