Environmental Sampling with a Portable XRF

When you’re in the lab, the size and weight of the equipment used to test samples is a non-issue, but when you head out into the field, you need something that won’t weigh you down. Portable XRFs offers lab-quality readings in seconds, making accurate on-site containment screening a reality. Take this device out in the field with you for quick and easy readings at every step, from preliminary site investigation to clearance testing.

Time is of the essence when dealing with a hazardous waste site. Whether you’re conducting in-situ soil testing or analyzing the amount of lead in paint, it’s important to determine the level of contamination as quickly as possible, so hazardous waste can be removed and remedial efforts can begin as soon as possible. In the past, it was incredibly challenging to get a reliable sample reading in a sufficient amount of time, but portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometry has proven to be a game-changer.

XRF Spectrometry

Scientists have been using XRF spectrometry in the lab for decades, but Portable XRFs have only been commonplace for the past 10 years or so. Since then, this innovative technology has become highly regarded by environmentalists for field instrumentation. These devices have the ability to give both a qualitative and quantitative reading of environmental samples, making it easy to discover the level of contamination almost immediately.

Of course, the level of quantitative analysis is largely dependent the nature of the application and the manner in which the data is being used. For environmental testing, XRF results are considered quantitative when measurement accuracy is within 20% and after the findings are confirmed by a trusted laboratory assessment.

Cost-effective, time-saving Portable XRFs have become the leading choice among experts for field testing lead-based paints in exposure studies and abatement actions. Even the U.S. Environmental Protection Environmental Response Team has used this technology for the field analysis of metals contamination in soils and sediments, as part of multiple preliminary investigations and removal efforts at hazardous waste sites.

Thinking about using a Portable XRF to assist with your next on-site analysis? Eco-Rental Solutions offers a Thermo Niton XRF Analyzer, manufactured by Thermo Fisher Scientific. Learn more about the features and specifications of this innovative tool.

Eco-Rental Solutions offers reliable environmental testing instruments at a competitive rate. Visit one of our six locations in Rochester, NY; Elmsford, NY; San Diego, CA; Oakland, CA; Tustin, CA and St. Louis, MO. Request a quote today!