Analysis method
Asbestos sample analysis with a JEOL SEM‑EDS electron microscope
JEOL SEM-EDS is an internationally recognised method for analysing asbestos samples. The instrument combines the sharp images of a scanning electron microscope with the chemical analysis of energy-dispersive spectroscopy – and gives a clear answer as to whether the sample contains asbestos.
Technology
How does JEOL SEM-EDS analysis work?
SEM – scanning electron microscopy
The scanning electron microscope uses a focused electron beam to produce a highly detailed image of the sample. Magnification goes up to 100,000×, so even individual asbestos fibres (less than 1 micrometre in diameter) are clearly visible. This matters because asbestos fibres are often too small to see with a light microscope.
EDS – energy-dispersive spectroscopy
EDS analysis measures the chemical composition of the fibres in real time. When the electron beam hits a fibre, it produces characteristic X-rays that reveal the fibre's elemental composition at atomic level. Each type of asbestos can be recognised by its own elemental profile.
LIVE-MAP – elemental mapping
For complex or mixed samples we use LIVE-MAP, which produces a colour map of how the elements are distributed in the sample. This makes it possible to tell asbestos fibres apart from other mineral fibres even in the most difficult cases – at no extra charge.
Result
What does the analysis identify and what is in the report?
Asbestos types identified
- Chrysotile (white asbestos)
- Amosite (brown asbestos)
- Crocidolite (blue asbestos)
- Tremolite
- Actinolite
- Anthophyllite
What the report contains
- Customer and sample details (site, material, location)
- Description of the analysis method (ISO 22262-1, JEOL SEM-EDS)
- Identification of the asbestos type
- Result for each sample: contains / does not contain asbestos
- Dust class or risk class 0–5
- Interpretation of the result
- Analyst's signature, with photos of the samples attached
Frequently asked questions
Questions about JEOL SEM-EDS analysis
Order an asbestos analysis with JEOL SEM-EDS
Analysis in line with ISO 22262-1. All six asbestos types, result the same day the sample arrives.