Metals

Metals testing is the critical analysis of materials to determine their metallic content, composition, or properties. We focus on detecting trace metals in soils, water, and air. This evaluates characteristics for regulatory compliance in environmental protection by testing for toxic elements like lead, arsenic, and cadmium, etc.

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.

Advanced Instrumentation

Teklab performs analysis 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. Our metals analysis is useful for measuring contaminants in wastewater, groundwater, stormwater, and drinking water. As specialists in environmental analytical testing, we routinely test for metals in various types of matrices.

We provide accurate and reliable testing of metals in various environmental samples, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and safeguarding public health. Below we have outlined some information about how metals analysis is performed in an environmental laboratory. This is to help those unfamiliar with trace elements testing better understand the complexities involved and why metals testing in our laboratory is a fundamental service we provide.

Please note: this is not an exact methodology for our standard operating procedure, this is simply illustrating the typical course of action regarding metals testing in an environmental laboratory.

Collection and Preparation of Samples

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 metal.

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 quality control and validation chemists review the data to confirm accuracy and consistency. This ensures that any potential issues are identified and addressed before the final report is generated.

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 for Include

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. If you need assistance or have any questions about our analytical procedures, please navigate to the Contact Us page to learn more about how our comprehensive metal testing services can help support your project.

Professional trace element testing of metals is crucial for environmental compliance because it ensures that environmental samples—such as water, soil, and air—meet regulatory standards and do not pose risks to human health or ecosystems. Metals, even in trace amounts, can be toxic or harmful when they accumulate, making precise and accurate testing essential for monitoring and controlling their presence.

Teklab is a NELAC-accredited environmental testing laboratory that provides controlled testing for standard metal constituents as required by various regulatory authorities across jurisdictions.

Teklab, your trusted source for quality analytical environmental testing for over 43 years.

A listing of our testing methods is shown below.

Metals Testing: ICP/ICP-MS

ICP uses a high-temperature plasma to excite atoms in the sample, producing light emissions at characteristic wavelengths. This allows for the detection and quantification of multiple elements simultaneously.

Mercury / Low Level Mercury

Heavy metals are among the most significant pollutants in natural waters. Within this group, mercury (Hg) is of particular concern because of its toxicity and accumulative nature in the food chain and ecosystem. Count on Teklab to report your metals data with accuracy.