Analysis method
Asbestos sample analysis with a JEOL SEM‑EDS electron microscope
JEOL SEM-EDS is the internationally accepted gold standard for analysing asbestos samples. The instrument combines the precise imaging of a scanning electron microscope with the chemical analysis of energy dispersive spectroscopy - giving an unequivocal answer about the presence of asbestos.
Technology
How does the JEOL SEM-EDS analysis work?
SEM ‑ scanning electron microscope
The scanning electron microscope produces an extremely precise image of the sample using a focused electron beam. Magnification reaches up to 100,000 times, so even individual asbestos fibres - less than 1 micrometre across - are clearly visible. That matters, because asbestos fibres are often too small for a light microscope to detect.
EDS - energy dispersive spectroscopy
EDS analysis measures the chemical composition of the fibres in real time. When the electron beam strikes a fibre it produces characteristic X-rays, from which the elemental composition can be read at atomic level. Each type of asbestos has its own distinctive elemental profile.
LIVE-MAP - elemental mapping
For complex or mixed samples we use LIVE-MAP elemental mapping, which produces a colour map of how the elements are distributed across the sample. It helps tell asbestos fibres from other mineral fibres in the most difficult cases - at no extra charge.
Results
What does the analysis identify and what does the report contain?
Identifiable types of asbestos
- Chrysotile (white asbestos)
- Amosite (brown asbestos)
- Crocidolite (blue asbestos)
- Tremolite
- Actinolite
- Anthophyllite
Content of the report
- Customer and sample details (site, material, location)
- Description of the analysis method (ISO 22262-1, JEOL SEM-EDS)
- Identification of asbestos type
- Result per sample: contains / does not contain asbestos
- Dustiness (risk) class 0–5
- Interpretation of the results
- Analyst's signature and sample photos as an appendix
Frequently asked questions
Questions about JEOL SEM-EDS analysis
Order JEOL SEM-EDS asbestos analysis
Analysis to the ISO 22262-1 standard. All six types of asbestos, results on the day of arrival.