We have used SEM analysis in conjunction with the below methods, to achieve a higher LOD and more information on the type of asbestos.
Michael Moore P
Senior Officer (Environment)
Public Protection
Rochdale Borough Council
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From: Contaminated
Land Management Discussion List [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
On Behalf Of Ben Jones
Sent: 03 July 2018 17:40
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Asbestos Quantification
Good morning all,
We have recently been looking at asbestos analysis and quantification, and I thought I would ask for opinions from the group.
My understanding is commercial laboratories generally offer quantification using the following techniques (please correct me if I am wrong):
·
Gravimetric – sample is visually inspected for ACMs, when encountered they are segregated and weighed;
·
Detailed gravimetric – inspection of sample under a microscope, following by picking and weighing of ACM/fibre bundles within samples;
·
PCOM quantification – an aqueous suspension is prepared and filtered, fibres counted and sized using PCOM.
I have generally found that the PCOM stage does not find free fibres in excess of the laboratories limit of reporting (<0.001%), although not always. The sub sample aliquot is also very small (a few grams grams). It is my understanding
the PCOM stage was developed assuming asbestos is uniformly distributed throughout a soil, which is hardly ever the case. Having spoken to a few analysts, the general feeling is provided the gravimetric stage is done thoroughly, this is usually sufficient
to quantify the asbestos within sample, as asbestos fibres tend to be present in relatively large fibre bundles that can be picked out. Does the PCOM stage therefore add any value to risk assessment/waste classification etc.?
Would it be better for the lab budget to be used for more asbestos screens/quantifications rather than fewer samples using the more detailed quantification method? Or does the more detailed quantification method provide the necessary detail
required to inform accurate assessment of asbestos content of the soil?
Kind Regards
Ben
Ben Jones |
Associate -
Land Quality & Remediation |
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+44 1225 309400 |
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+44 7464 498619 |
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SLR Consulting Limited |
Treenwood House, Rowden Lane, Bradford on Avon, BA15 2AU |
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