Vibrational spectroscopy and non-parametric analysis for biodegradation evaluation: The acrylic-emulsion paint scenario

In this work, we utilized Raman spectroscopy, characterized by excellent lateral resolution, in capturing the degradation of paints was investigated. Six fresh and six spoilt acrylic emulsion paint samples obtained from a paint company in Lagos, Nigeria and were used for this study. They were analyzed for microbial population and types using total viable count method and analytical profile index (API20E &20NE). Physicochemical quality markers [transmittance (TR), pH, OD600, and specific gravity (SG)] of the paints were evaluated by standard methods. Raman spectroscopy was deployed to analyze components of both fresh and spoilt paint samples. Lead (Pb) concentrations were assessed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry.