THE PROBLEM:

A client concerned that asbestos might be present, asked MVA Scientific Consultants to analyze a sample of their soil. In addition, the client asked MVA for information about any fibers present, especially information about their aspect ratios (length/width).

THE ANALYSIS:

MVA used 1 mm and 300 µm sieves to generate 3 separate sub-samples for analysis (Figure 1). The coarse fraction (>1mm) was analyzed by stereomicroscopy and polarized light microscopy (PLM) (Figure 2). The intermediate fraction (300 µm – 1mm) was analyzed by PLM (Figure 3). The fine fraction (<300 µm) was analyzed by PLM, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) (Figure 4).

THE OUTCOME:

Chrysotile was found in the samples, much of it in the form of bundles with aspect ratios greater than 3:1 (Figures 3 & 4).