Dust Characterization Services at MVA Scientific Consultants
- Workplace dust analysis
- Household dust analysis
- Industrial dust characterization
- Indoor dust characterization
- Unknown material analysis
- Air sample analysis
- Air duct debris analysis
Dust is ubiquitous in our environment but generally falls into one of three categories: household dust, workplace dust and industrial dust. Each type of dust is made up of different constituents from its surrounding environment, and these dust and debris particles from industrial sites, a workplace or even homes can be potentially hazardous.
Dust analysis, or dust characterization, can help identify the different individual constituents in dust samples. At MVA Scientific Consultants’ dust analysis laboratory, we use a combination of polarized light microscopy, infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy to identify the different particles in dust.
Household dust is commonly made up of skin cells, hairs, pollen, minerals, mold, bug parts, paper fibers and carpet fibers.
While these particles are not harmful, there could be extraneous particles, allergens or toxic materials in household dust that can cause allergic reactions.
For dust issues in the home, we recommend contacting a local Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH). They can often identify your problem, collect a sample and send it to MVA Scientific Consultants if testing is required. You can locate on through AIHA.
Workplace dust includes the common materials from household dust plus a broader range of unknown materials since it depends on the workplace environment.
Workplace dust needs to be treated with caution since it could be contaminated with all sorts of different allergens and/or toxic particles.
Industrial site dust could be dust from power plants, warehouses, factories and many others. Due to the nature of these facilities, the dust from these places has to be treated with extra caution.
The dust from these industrial facilities needs to be characterized to ensure worker safety so it can be properly disposed of to avoid contaminating the environment.
To learn more about how MVA Scientific Consultants’ scientists can handle your specific dust analysis and testing needs, email us at info@mvainc.com or give us a call today at 770-662-8509.
More info:
Light Microscopy
Particle Characterization
Environmental Forensics
Industrial Hygiene Testing