ASBESTOS IN COATED ROADSTONE – TEM

ANALYSIS METHODS

The detection of asbestos as well as the identification of the fiber type in question is done transmission electron microscopy (TEM) on the samples after a double-chemical treatment.

TECHNIQUES AND MATERIALS EMPLOYED

Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) : analysis of the fiber’s morphology and additional analysis by electron diffraction and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy.

NATURE OF THE RESULTS

The results are qualitative: presence or absence, identification of one or many types of asbestos in case of presence.

ESTIMATED TIME

1 day, 3 days or 5 days

SAMPLING

Samples packed in a waterproof double sealing bag (ziplock).

NORMS AND REFERENCE 

Method defined by IDRIMM adapted from the NFX 43-050 norm.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Sample preparation is done without any mechanical grinding, the aim being to prevent an analysis bias by creating fragments.