Speck-Check
Speck-Check is a low-cost, portable detection system designed to identify microplastics in food without damaging the samples. Unlike existing methods such as Raman spectroscopy, Nile Red staining, or thermal degradation, which are destructive, expensive, or impractical, this project integrates near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy, a high-resolution microscope, and Arduino-based data processing to provide an efficient and accessible alternative. An AI model built with Edge Impulse analyzes the data to accurately detect and quantify microplastics, offering a user-friendly tool that preserves food integrity. By making food safety technology more accessible, Speck-Check seeks to raise awareness of environmental pollution, strengthen food monitoring, and support broader conservation efforts with potential applications ranging from seafood and produce to bottled water. This project was submitted to the MIT THINK 2024 competition.