engleski

Use of reference samples in the detection and identification of asbestos in materials

New legislation in European Community, ranging from total prohibition to severe restrictions of asbestos has curbed the growth in use of this mineral in recent years, but it is still around. The health hazard associated with asbestos exposure has been well known for many of years. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) states that all forms of asbestos should be added to an international list of chemicals subject to trade controls. The program «Asbestos In Materials Scheme (AIMS)» under the auspices of Health and Safety Committee on Fibre Measurement at Health and Safety Laboratory, Sheffield, UK, offers protocol for correct identification of types of asbestos in bulk materials, using polarized light microscopy, asbestos reference samples and dispersion stain technique. The seven asbestos reference standards have been prepared and validated by Institute of Occupational Medicine on behalf of Health and Safety Executive. They are intended to be used as reference samples in the analysis of types of asbestos in bulk material. Each asbestos sample displays faithful properties by polarized light microscopy, electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and infrared spectrophotometry. The samples are therefore representative of typical asbestos types of the amphibole and serpentine minerals. Our experience in identification of asbestos in the bulk materials will be presented.

polarized light microscopy; asbestos; reference samples; dispersion stain

nije evidentirano