Metal analysis

The Metal Analysis Section of the Chemical and Biological Hazards Department determines metal concentrations, primarily in airborne dusts, and also in material and wipe samples taken at workplaces.

For quantitative analysis of carcinogenic metallic hazardous substances, multi-element methods are generally used. In particular, these are:

• Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS)
• Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES)
• Total reflection X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (TXRF)

Some elements or metal species can be determined only by means of single-element analysis. This applies to:

• Mercury (atomic fluorescence spectrometry (AFS))
• Chromium(VI) compounds (ion chromatography (IC) or UV-VIS spectrometry)
• Other speciations, e.g. antimony or arsenic (atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS), graphite tube/hydride/flame)

Use of coupled high-performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry with inductively coupled plasma (HPLC-ICP-MS) enables air and material samples to be analysed for their organotin compound content.

UV-VIS spectrometry is also used for analysis of a range of inorganic compounds, such as hydrogen peroxide, phosphine, hydrazine.

Quantitative analysis of all multi-element and single-element methods used covers the trace and ultratrace range.

Beyond these services, the section is able to provide technical consulting on the substances stated. It develops analytical methods and offers training for the German Social Accident Insurance Institutions. The research staff are also involved in the development of regulations and standards.