Metal Analysis
All water analysis is carried out by ICP MS and soil analysis is carried out by ICP OES. The standard turnaround time for metal analysis is 6 working days.
Water analysis is carried out by ICP MS which can analyse accurately down to ppb level. Clean samples are analysed directly on the ICP MS and any samples containing particles are digested prior to analysis. The sample is introduced into an argon based high temperature plasma by pneumatic nebulisation. Energy transfer from the plasma to the sample stream then causes ionisation of the target elements which are then separated on the basis of their masses to charge ratio by a mass spectrometer. We currently carry out 5 different runs on our ICP MS and have UKAS accreditation for our Multi Run and Ca, Na, Mg, K run.
We can analyse for the following metals:
Li, Be, B, Al, Fe, Zn, Cr, Ga, V, Cd, Pb, Tl, U, Sr, Sn, Ag, As, Co, Cs, Cu, Mn, Ni, Rb, Se, Ba, Sb, Ca, Na, Mg, K.
These 3 elements are analysed on this run at ppm level: Mercury is analysed at ppb level, Molybdenum is analysed at ppb level and
Soil analysis is carried out on our ICP OES. We are currently working towards gaining MCERTS accreditation for our soil analysis. Samples are introduced into the plasma as a solution and are pumped to a nebuliser where they are converted to a fine spray and mixed with argon. ICP OES utilises UV and visible spectrometry to image the plasma at the exact wavelength of ionic excitation of the element of interest. All soil samples are digested using a modblock method prior to analysis.
We currently carry out the following on our ICP OES:
Multi Element run - This analyses for 26 elements at ppb level - Li, Be, B, Al, Fe, Zn, Cr, Ga, V, Cd, Pb, Tl, U, Sr, Sn, Ag, As, Co, Cs, Cu, Mn, Ni, Rb, Se, Ba, Sb. Ca, Na, Mg, K.
These 3 elements are analysed on this run at ppm level: Mercury is analysed at ppb level, Molybdenum is analysed at ppb level and Exchangeable Potassium is analysed at ppm level.
For all metal analysis we take part in regular proficiency testing by 3 external proficiency companies. These proficiency samples cover different types of waters and also soils.
For further information on Metals Analysis please contact the lab on 041 984 5440 or email info@euroenv.ie
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