Metal analysis

The laboratories of the Metals analysis section in the Chemical and Biological Hazards Department conduct analyses of atmospheric dusts and material samples containing metals. A range of element analysis methods are used.

Both single-element analysis methods, such as atomic absorption spectroscopy (flame/graphite furnace/Zeeman effect) and atomic fluorescence spectroscopy (AFS) for mercury analysis, and multi-element methods such as inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES), inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS) and total reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF), are used for quantitative element analysis. The range extends from trace to ultratrace element analysis.

ICP-MS is also used to analyse atmospheric and material samples for organotin compounds.

Ultraviolet visible spectroscopy (UV-VIS) is used primarily to detect chromium(VI) compounds in atmospheric and material samples. Certain inorganic compounds (such as hydrogen peroxide and monophosphane) are also analysed by means of this method.