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Microplastic Water Testing: Basic vs Plus
What can a water test tell you about the water you use every day?
Microplastic concentration, water hardness and pH describe different characteristics of a water sample. Understanding these measurements can help you choose a test and interpret your results.
At 5mmTEST, we provide microplastic testing services and measure water hardness and pH. You collect water following our instructions, and we analyze the sample and provide the results. Check your selected package for the full list of included measurements.
What Does Our Water Testing Service Measure?
Microplastic Concentration
Our microplastic testing service measures the combined concentration of the target plastics covered by your selected package. The result is reported in ppm.
This is a combined measurement for the target group, rather than a separate concentration for each plastic type. It also differs from particle counting: a concentration result does not describe the number, size or shape of individual particles.
Water Hardness
Water hardness primarily reflects the amount of dissolved calcium and magnesium in water. These minerals can influence soap lather and mineral deposits on kettles and other surfaces.
Hardness does not indicate microplastic concentration. The two require separate measurements.
pH
pH describes how acidic or alkaline a water sample is. It provides another part of the water's chemical profile, but cannot tell you whether microplastics are present.
Basic and Plus: What Is the Difference?
Choose a package according to the target coverage you need.
| Feature | Basic | Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Target coverage | Up to 3 plastic types, including PET | Up to 5 plastic types, including PET and nylon |
| Microplastic result | Combined concentration (ppm) | Combined concentration (ppm) |
| Separate concentration for each plastic type | Not provided | Not provided |
Both packages measure the combined concentration of their target plastics; neither covers every type of plastic.
For current prices, sample quantities and included testing parameters, review the package details before ordering.
How Does 5mmTEST Work?
1. Choose Your Testing Package
Select Basic or Plus and check the sample requirements before ordering.
2. Receive Your Collection Kit
Your kit is delivered to the address entered when ordering. Read the supplied instructions before collecting water.
3. Collect Your Water Sample
Use the glass bottle supplied with your kit and follow the instructions for sample volume, collection and handling.
The household service accepts clean water samples. Milk, juice, and water mixed with sugar, honey, other impurities or solid material are not accepted. Contact 5mmTEST before ordering if you are unsure whether your sample is suitable.
4. Request Collection and Return Your Sample
For customers in Korea, request collection through your 5mmTEST account under "My Page." Pack your sample as instructed and leave the kit at the same location where it was delivered.
You do not need to contact a courier or book shipping separately. Collection is available only from the original delivery address. Round-trip shipping is included in the domestic service price.
5. Check Your Results Online
Results are available in "My Page" within up to 14 business days after the kit is collected. This period starts from collection, rather than the order date.
Read the reported values together with the units, analytical scope and explanatory notes.
Understanding Your Water Test Results
Your results describe the sample submitted for analysis. The collection location, time, storage and handling can affect how well it represents the water you normally use.
When reviewing your report, check:
- The selected package and its target plastics.
- The reporting units and any stated detection limits.
- The sample collection conditions.
- The explanation and limitations accompanying the results.
A result below the detection limit does not establish that water contains no plastics of any kind. Results apply to the target materials and analytical conditions covered by the method.
Microplastic concentration, hardness and pH provide different information. Together, they offer a broader description of a sample, but do not constitute a comprehensive drinking-water safety assessment. Other substances and microorganisms require separate testing.
The service provides reference information for everyday comparison and does not replace an accredited test where one is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I test tap water or water from a purifier?
Yes. The household service covers clean water samples such as tap water and water from purifiers. Follow the supplied collection instructions. Milk, juice, and water mixed with sugar, honey or solid material are not accepted.
Is this a do-it-yourself microplastic test?
5mmTEST is a sample collection and laboratory testing service. You collect and return the water; analysis is carried out through the service.
Does the test detect every type of plastic?
No. Basic covers up to three target plastic types, including PET. Plus covers up to five, including PET and nylon. Results represent the combined concentration of the target plastics, not a separate concentration for each type.
Can hardness or pH indicate whether microplastics are present?
No. Hardness, pH and microplastic concentration are separate measurements. Microplastic testing is needed to assess the target plastics covered by the method.
Do I need to arrange return shipping?
For customers in Korea, request collection in your 5mmTEST account under "My Page," then leave the packed kit at the original delivery location. You do not need to book a courier separately. Collection is available only from the original delivery address.
Is shipping included?
Round-trip shipping is included in the domestic service price in Korea.
How long does it take to receive results?
Results are available in "My Page" within up to 14 business days after your kit is collected. This period starts from collection, not the order date.
Can I request testing from outside Korea?
5mmTEST currently accepts samples within Korea. International service, including the US, UK and Germany, is launching soon. Contact us to be notified when overseas sample collection opens.
Beyond Household Testing: Laboratory-Grade Detection
5mmTEST is one part of DECOMPOSITION's microplastic detection work. For laboratories that need in-house analysis, DECOMPOSITION also offers the 5mmLAB microplastic detection kit, an enzyme-based fluorescence kit for PET, PBAT and PETG in water samples.
Explore Our Water Testing Service
Visit 5mmTEST to compare Basic and Plus, review the current package details and choose the service that fits your testing needs.
5mmTEST is currently available in Korea, with international service for the US, UK and Germany launching soon. Contact us to be notified when overseas sample collection opens.