Metals

Metals testing is a useful measure of contaminants in our environment. We routinely test for metals in soil and metals in various types of water (wastewater, groundwater, storm water and drinking water).

Comprehensive Analysis of Semi-volatile Organic Compounds

At Teklab, we specialize in the precise testing of a wide variety of Semi-volatile Organic Compounds (SVOCs) to meet the rigorous demands of industrial, municipal, and regulatory clients. Our advanced environmental laboratory routinely analyzes soils, waters, and special wastes using state-of-the-art methods, ensuring that every test we conduct is both accurate and reliable. From BNA and PAH testing to pesticides and herbicides, our comprehensive list of semi-volatile methods is designed to address your specific needs.

Understanding that many unique organic compounds exist, and local regulatory agencies may require testing beyond standard EPA or SW846 lists, Teklab performs validation studies to ensure your particular compound can be accurately extracted and analyzed. We pride ourselves on maintaining NELAP accreditation standards, providing you with trustworthy and legally defensible results. Whether your testing requirements are routine or specialized, Teklab’s commitment to quality and precision ensures that your environmental testing needs are met with the highest level of expertise.

Sample Collection and Preparation

Sample Collection: The process starts with the collection of samples from the environment, such as water, soil, sediment, or air filters. Proper collection techniques are crucial to avoid contamination and ensure that samples are representative of the site being studied.

Sample Preservation: After collection, samples are preserved using specific acids (like nitric acid) to stabilize the metals and prevent any changes before analysis.

Sample Digestion: For solid samples (e.g., soil, sludge, or sediment), a digestion process is used to break down the matrix and release the metals into a solution. This often involves using concentrated acids and heat to ensure complete extraction of the metals

Instrumental Analysis

Teklab utilizes state-of-the-art instrumentation to detect and quantify metals, ensuring high sensitivity and accuracy. Common analytical techniques include:

Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS): This technique is highly sensitive and capable of detecting trace levels of metals. It’s widely used for analyzing metals in water, soil, and air samples, providing both qualitative and quantitative data.

Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES): ICP-OES is effective for measuring metal concentrations across a wide dynamic range. It’s ideal for analyzing multiple metals simultaneously in various environmental matrices.

Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS): AAS is often used for analyzing specific metals, particularly heavy metals like lead, cadmium, and arsenic. It’s a reliable method for lower concentration ranges.

Quality Control and Data Validation

Calibration and Standards: The accuracy of metal testing is ensured through the use of calibration standards, method blanks, and quality control samples. These checks help verify that the instruments are functioning correctly and that results are reliable.

Accredited Methods: Teklab follows stringent, NELAP-accredited methods (such as EPA 200.7, 200.8, and 6010B) to ensure that results meet industry and regulatory standards.

Data Review: After analysis, our experienced chemists review the data to confirm its accuracy and consistency. This ensures that any potential issues are identified and addressed before the final report is generated.

We test for high concentrations of contaminants by Inductively Coupled Argon Plasma (ICP) using SW846 6010B and EPA 200.7 or the Inductively Coupled Argon Plasma Mass Spectrometer using methods SW846 6020A and EPA 200.8

At Teklab, Inc., we specialize in the accurate and reliable testing of metals in various environmental samples, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and safeguarding public health. This is not an exact methodology or standard operating procedure, this is simply illustrating the typical course of action regarding metals analysis in an environmental laboratory.

Reporting Results

Detailed Reports: We provide comprehensive reports that include the concentration of metals detected, method details, quality control results, and regulatory compliance information.

Regulatory Compliance: Our testing services help clients meet regulatory requirements set by the EPA, state agencies, and other governing bodies.

Common Metals Tested

Heavy Metals: Lead (Pb), Cadmium (Cd), Mercury (Hg), and Arsenic (As)

Nutrients and Trace Metals: Iron (Fe), Copper (Cu), Zinc (Zn), and Nickel (Ni)

By employing rigorous testing protocols and advanced instrumentation, Teklab delivers accurate and timely results that help our clients protect the environment and comply with regulatory standards.

Ready to discuss your testing needs? Contact us to learn more about how our comprehensive metal analysis services can support your project.

Teklab, Inc is a NELAC Accredited Environmental Testing Laboratory that provides testing for metal constituents as required by various regulatory authorities.

A listing of our testing methods is shown below.