Use of a fibre‐optic probe for the identification of asbestos fibres in bulk materials by Raman spectroscopy

Abstract

AbstractWithin the UK, a large number of surveys are being carried out for the identification of asbestos in building materials. Pre‐demolition or major refurbishment and building sampling surveys require that representative samples be analysed for asbestos. The primary technique for the analysis of asbestos fibres in bulk materials is polarized light microscopy (PLM). Since this method is based on visual estimation, it depends on the competence and experience of the analyst. Furthermore, PLM, in common with the other analytical methods used for the identification of asbestos in bulk materials, is a laboratory‐based technique requiring samples to be collected and then sent to a laboratory for analysis. Raman spectroscopy is a powerful tool for mineral characterization and provides a molecular fingerprint for material. In recent years, new developments in optics and electronics have permitted the development of compact Raman spectrometers allowing in situ measurements. We report the performance of a robust, laboratory‐based fibre‐optic probe for the identification of asbestos in bulk materials by Raman spectroscopy. Thirty‐eight samples were analysed, and the results showed that 95% of the samples were successfully identified as either asbestos free or containing one or more asbestos components. A success rate of 100% was found for asbestos insulating board and asbestos cement materials. The results indicated that a Raman probe device for detecting asbestos does have potential, but a number of issues need to be addressed before an on‐site system can be developed. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.