Asbestos
TEM ASTM D-6281-98
Category
Asbestos Laboratory Analysis
Method
TEM ASTM D-6281-98
Description
The TEM ASTM D-6281-98 is a standard test method for determining the concentration of asbestos structures in ambient atmospheres. This analytical procedure utilizes Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and is known for its complexity due to the precise detail it provides about the measurements of the often complex structures encountered in a typical air sample.
What Does the Test Involve?
The TEM ASTM D-6281-98 method involves measuring the dimensions of asbestos structures, enabling the calculation of aspect ratios. The method of data recording is designed to allow re-evaluation of the structure counting data as new applications for measurements are developed. The sample retention time for this method is typically 60 days.
Why Use TEM ASTM D-6281-98?
Asbestos-related diseases have provided much of the impetus for fiber research in recent years. Asbestos, a commercial term applied to the fibrous forms of several minerals, has been the fiber type most commonly associated with disease. The three primary diseases associated with asbestos exposure are asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.
The TEM ASTM D-6281-98 method is particularly useful because it can detect fibers down to about 0.25 µm diameter for chrysotile and about 0.15 µm for amphiboles. This makes it an effective tool for identifying asbestos fibers in settings where fiber concentrations with a significant non-asbestos fraction may occur.
Quality Assurance in TEM ASTM D-6281-98
Quality assurance is a critical aspect of the TEM ASTM D-6281-98 method. It often involves individual counters recounting about 10% of the field samples to ensure consistent counting procedures. Additionally, exchange of field samples between laboratories is commonly performed to improve consistency of counting.
Conclusion
The TEM ASTM D-6281-98 method is a robust and reliable approach for determining the concentration of asbestos structures in ambient atmospheres. Its ability to provide detailed measurements of complex structures makes it an invaluable tool in the fight against asbestos-related diseases.