Laboratory analysis of heavy metals

Analysis laboratories can use a variety of techniques to measure heavy metals in a product.

The most commonly used technique is atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). This method involves vaporising the product to be analysed to create a cloud of atoms that are then excited by a light source. The heavy metals present in the cloud will absorb some of this light, enabling their concentration to be measured.

Another method often used is X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XFS). This technique uses a source of X-rays to excite the heavy metals present in the product. The metals then emit a fluorescence that can be used to measure their concentration.

There are also other methods such as ion chromatography, mass spectrometry and voltametry, which can be used depending on the type of product to be analysed and the sensitivity required for heavy metal detection.

In all cases, it is important to follow strict protocols to ensure accurate and reliable results. Analysis laboratories must comply with strict quality standards and use state-of-the-art equipment to carry out these important analysis.

There are a number of measures that companies can take to prevent heavy metal contamination in their manufacturing processes. Here are a few examples:

Identify potential sources of contamination: Companies should carry out a thorough assessment of their manufacturing processes to identify potential sources of heavy metal contamination. This may include the use of raw materials containing heavy metals, inadequate processing or handling equipment, or discharges of contaminated industrial wastewater.

Implement quality control procedures: Companies should implement quality control procedures to ensure that finished products do not contain excessive amounts of heavy metals. This may include the use of regular heavy metal assays and compliance verification protocols, as well as the establishment of strict production standards.

Use safer substitutes: In some cases, companies may be able to use safer substitutes to replace heavy metals in their manufacturing processes. More environmentally friendly and sustainable alternatives can be used to replace products containing heavy metals.

Educate employees: Companies need to educate and train their employees on the risks associated with heavy metal contamination and the preventive measures that need to be put in place to minimise the risks. Employees must be informed about safety procedures, personal protective equipment and emergency protocols.

Reminder: what is arsenic?
Arsenic is a chemical element with an electronic configuration similar to that of phosphorus, and is located just above it on the periodic table. Like phosphorus, arsenic can form covalent bonds with other elements. However, it also has metallic properties, making it useful for making alloys. Arsenic is used in many fields, including the semiconductor industry, alloy manufacture, agriculture (in the form of pesticides) and medicine (in certain cancer treatments). However, excessive exposure to arsenic can be harmful to health, as it is toxic to human cells. Arsenic is also considered a known human carcinogen.

Arsenic is frequently dosed in industry for several reasons. Firstly, arsenic can be a common contaminant in various types of industrial chemicals and processing agents. Companies that produce or use these chemicals may be required to carry out regular tests to check for the presence of arsenic in their samples.

In addition, arsenic may be present in soil samples as a result of environmental contamination. Analysis laboratories may therefore be asked to carry out tests on soil samples taken from industrial areas or which have been exposed to chemicals containing arsenic.

Finally, laboratories can carry out arsenic measurements as part of scientific research studies. Scientists can study the effects of arsenic on the environment, pharmacology and other related subjects. An arsenic assay is needed to measure the concentration of arsenic in samples and to understand how it interacts with other chemical compounds.

Phthalates can be dosed in a variety of different ways. Phthalates are chemical compounds commonly used as plasticisers to improve the flexibility, durability and performance of many plastic products. However, they can also be toxic to human health at high concentrations.

Here are some examples of why phthalates may need to be dosed:

In the children's toy industry: Phthalates can be present in children's plastic toys. In many countries, there are strict regulatory standards concerning the amount of phthalates permitted in children's toys. Phthalate dosages are essential to ensure that toys do not contain dangerous quantities of these chemical compounds.

In the food industry: Studies have shown that phthalates can migrate from plastic food packaging into the food it contains. Phthalate testing is therefore necessary to ensure that foods do not contain harmful levels of these chemicals.

In the textile industry: Phthalates can also be found in soft plastic or vinyl clothing, as well as in certain types of synthetic leather. Phthalate dosages are essential to ensure that garments do not contain dangerous quantities of these chemical compounds.

In the medical industry: Phthalates can be used in plastic medical devices such as catheters and blood bags. Phthalate testing can help to ensure that devices do not contain harmful levels of these chemicals.