NY ELAP 198.4 (TEM with Gravimetric Prep)

Asbestos testing is a critical process in ensuring the safety of building materials. The NY ELAP 198.4 testing method is a specialized procedure used in New York State for this purpose. This guide will delve into the specifics of this method.

What is the NY ELAP 198.4 Testing Method

The NY ELAP 198.4 method is a unique approach that utilizes Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) for the detection of asbestos in Non-friable Organically Bound (NOB) building materials. This method is typically employed following a 198.1 (PLM) analysis, with both tests being necessary to classify a material as non-asbestos containing.

The Importance of the NY ELAP 198.4 Testing Method

Some building materials, such as floor tiles and roofing materials, present challenges in asbestos detection due to the tight binding of asbestos to the matrix material. These materials, classified as NOB, require a more specialized approach for accurate asbestos detection, which is where the NY ELAP 198.4 method comes into play.

Examples of NOB Materials Include:

• Floor tiles (vinyl and asphalt)
• Roofing materials
• Mastics
• Caulking

Key Considerations in NY ELAP 198.4 Testing

It's important to note that the PLM method may not detect asbestos fibers smaller than 0.2 microns in diameter. As NOB materials often contain asbestos fibers less than 0.1 microns in diameter, the NY ELAP 198.4 method, which uses TEM at higher magnification, is crucial for accurate detection. However, extremely large amphibole asbestos fibers may be missed by TEM, necessitating the use of both PLM and TEM for comprehensive analysis.

Sample Retention in NY ELAP 198.4 Testing

Samples are retained for a period of 60 days.