Onsite direct-read system for semi-quantitative detection of traces of beryllium on surfaces

Abstract

The present work describes a simple and reproducible direct-read system for onsite monitoring of beryllium on surfaces of work areas. It is based on the colorimetric reaction of beryllium with active ingredients deposited in a swab. A color comparator consisting of beryllium color chart was designed to enable the semi-quantitative determination of beryllium in surface samples. The system provides a minimum detection limit of 0.01 microg sample(-1). Metals tested for any interference effect include Al(3+), Ba(2+), Cd(2+), Cu(2+), Co(2+), Cr(3+), Cr(6+), Fe(3+), Hg(2+), Mg(2+), Ni(2+), Pb(2+), Ti(4+) and UO(2)(2+). Validation of the system showed no significant effect from metal interferences on the quantification of beryllium.

Trace-level beryllium analysis in the laboratory and in the field: state of the art, challenges and opportunities

“…At this symposium, papers were presented on techniques utilizing LIBS, MIPS, TOFMS, voltammetry 60,61 and colorimetric surface wipes 62 . The LIBS, MIPS, and colorimetric techniques are now commercially 395 available 42,44,63 , along with the atomic fluorescence technique developed more recently [28][29][30] . In 2002-03, a group of scientists from DOE, NIOSH, and the U. S. Department of Defense (DOD) developed preliminary criteria for real-time air monitoring equipment 400 and surface wipe analyzers 59,64 .…”

Extraction and Optical Fluorescence Method for the Measurement of Trace Beryllium in Soils

“…It is desired that simple techniques be made available so that these measurements can be performed in the field as the samples are being taken and processed, enabling quick decision-making for hazard assessment purposes. Candidate techniques for beryllium field monitoring have included fluorescence – , electroanalysis , laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy , and chemical spot tests .…”