Comparison of collection efficiencies of sampling methods for removable beryllium surface contamination

Abstract

The primary goal of this study is to compare wet versus dry sampling methods for three different media, (Whatman 41 filter papers, GhostWipes, and SKC Smear Tabs), These media were selected because they are the most commonly used means for the collection of beryllium from contaminated surfaces within the DOE Complex. A range of known concentrations of beryllium was introduced onto a smooth nonporous surface. All three types of media were tested for collection efficiency in both the wet and dry mode and analyzed by inductively-coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES).

Trace beryllium determination in polyvinyl alcohol wipes by extraction and fluorescence detection: interlaboratory analysis

“…Beryllium performance data from this interlaboratory study demonstrate that the use of the NH 4 HF 2 extraction and HBQS fluorescence detection gives acceptable interlaboratory precision and recoveries from samples of polyvinyl alcohol wipe media containing high-fired beryllium oxide. The results are important in view of the widespread use of this wipe material for Be surface dust sampling, 23 and in consideration of the low exposure limits that have been established for this highly toxic element. The information from this investigation will prove to be valuable in future revisions of standardized Be sampling and analytical methodologies and sampling material specifications.…”

Extraction of Beryllium from Refractory Beryllium Oxide with Dilute Ammonium Bifluoride and Determination by Fluorescence: A Multiparameter Performance Evaluation

“…(7,(20)(21)(22) Examples of typical media include MCE filters for air samples and Whatman 541 cellulosic filters and dust wipes such as Palintest wipes for surface sampling. To test the performance of the extraction and fluorescence method under typical sampling conditions, samples of BeO solid (∼1-2 mg of < 32 µm, 90 to 106 µm, or 180 to 212 µm size fractions) were spiked onto these media.…”

Cutaneous exposure scenarios for engineered nanoparticles used in semiconductor fabrication: a preliminary investigation of workplace surface contamination

“…Surface sampling can be used for measurements of the skin, inner and outer clothing or protective item layers, and surface contaminant layer. 29,30,[32][33][34] This data is useful in identifying material characteristics, calculating exposure point concentrations, and/or evaluating the effectiveness of protective equipment or a decontamination process, housekeeping procedure or other control (depending on the sample collection and analysis methods used). Only limited data are available on surface sampling at workplaces creating or handling engineered nanoparticles.…”