Laboratory service

Asbestos analysiswith a SEM electron microscope

Semlab analyses asbestos samples to ISO 22262-1 using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and real-time element analysis (LIVE-EDS). The method reliably identifies all six types of asbestos. The result lands in your inbox the same day the sample arrives.

In short

What does an asbestos analysis show?

An asbestos analysis shows whether the building material contains asbestos and which type of asbestos was found in the sample. Semlab's analysis with JEOL SEM-EDS costs €49.99 incl. VAT per sample, and the result comes the same day the sample arrives.

All 6 types of asbestos
€49.99 incl. VAT
Result the same day the sample arrives
Order an analysis

Analysis method

How does asbestos analysis with JEOL SEM‑EDS work?

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM)

SEM uses a focused electron beam to create a highly detailed image of the sample surface. It reveals even small asbestos fibres that a light microscope cannot detect. Magnification goes up to 100,000x, so individual fibres can be examined.

Energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS)

EDS measures the chemical composition of the fibres in real time. Each fibre's element profile is compared with known asbestos minerals, so the identification is unambiguous. LIVE-EDS allows real-time analysis without delay.

LIVE-MAP – element mapping

For complex samples we use LIVE-MAP, which creates a visual map of how the elements are distributed in the sample. This lets us tell asbestos fibres apart from other mineral fibres in particularly difficult cases.

What's included

What does the asbestos analysis include?

Receipt and preparation of the sample
Analysis with a SEM electron microscope
Real-time LIVE-EDS element analysis
Identification and typing of all 6 types of asbestos
LIVE-MAP when needed (at no extra cost)
Result report by email
Interpretation of the result in the report
Dust class, i.e. risk class 0–5

Method comparison

SEM analysis vs. light microscopy (PLM)

FeatureLight microscopy (PLM)JEOL SEM-EDS (Semlab)
Asbestos types identified3–4 typesAll 6 types
Element analysisNot possibleReal-time LIVE-EDS
Small fibres (< 1 μm)Not detectedReliably identified
Magnificationapprox. 400xUp to 100,000x
AccuracyGoodVery good
False negativesPossibleMinimal risk
ISO standardVariesISO 22262-1

Price

Asbestos analysis €49.99 incl. VAT per sample

The price covers a full analysis with JEOL SEM-EDS, identification of all types of asbestos and a result report by email. No hidden costs and no extra fees. VAT is already included in the price of €49.99 per sample. For projects with more than 100 samples, we agree the price with you.

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FAQ

Questions about asbestos analysis

Order an asbestos analysis now

Find out with the JEOL SEM-EDS electron microscope whether your material contains asbestos. Result the same day the sample arrives.