Screening of Hazardous Waste with an Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometer

Abstract

“HAZARDOUS WASTE SITE” - What picture do those words bring to mind? Most people visualize a remote area behind a tall chain-linked fence with signs prohibiting entrance and warning of the dangers within. For these sites already identified as hazardous waste sites, access is limited, and all who enter must wear appropriate protective clothing when working on the site. However, a yet to be identified “hazardous waste site” may be as close by as the back lot of a manufacturing facility in your town. Or, it may be a vacant lot in your neighborhood or even your own property, land on which children play and vegetable gardens grow. Thus, those involved in locating hazardous contamination and determining the extent of that contamination are not only with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and its contractors, but are also with state and local departments of health as well.