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A Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) large piece of lab equipment sat next to two screens on a desk in a plain coloured room. with dark lighting.

Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) Analysis

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Trusted Asbestos Services

Regular Interlaboratory Counting Exchanges (RICE)

Our UKAS ISO 17025-accredited hazardous materials laboratory operates under the legal entity Lucion Services Ltd. We participate in the Regular Interlaboratory Counting Exchanges (RICE).

Scanning Electrons Microscopy Fibre Counting Scheme (SEMS)

Our UKAS ISO 17025-accredited hazardous materials laboratory operates under the legal entity Lucion Services Ltd. We participate in the Scanning Electrons Microscopy Fibre Counting Scheme (SEMS).

UKAS Accredited – Testing

Our UKAS ISO 17025 accredited hazardous materials laboratory operates under the legal entity Lucion Services. Lucion Services is a UKAS accredited testing laboratory No. 2569 in relation to asbestos.

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Lucion is a professional and very approachable organisation. Extremely helpful in giving technical advice on asbestos management issues.

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Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) Analysis

Standard air monitoring using Phase Contrast Microscopy (PCM) can only detect fibres down to 0.01 f/cm3. SEM can detect fibres as low as 0.0005 f/cm3, providing a much more sensitive analysis.

Additionally, SEM can distinguish between asbestos and non-asbestos fibres, and identify specific asbestos fibre types. 

Our SEM air sampling process is designed to be minimally disruptive. The sampling equipment is quiet and can be set up discreetly in occupied areas without interfering with normal activities. 

Typically, we can provide SEM analysis results within 5-7 working days. For urgent requirements, please contact us to discuss alternative options. 

While not currently mandated by law, SEM air monitoring represents best practice in asbestos management, especially for buildings like schools where long-term, low-level exposure is a concern. SEM provides a more accurate risk assessment than visual inspections alone. 

In relation to asbestos air monitoring, the frequency of SEM air monitoring depends on various factors including the condition and location of asbestos-containing materials, building occupancy, and previous test results.

We can help you develop an appropriate monitoring schedule based on your specific circumstances. 

SEM results provide detailed information about airborne asbestos fibre levels, helping you to: 

  • Validate the effectiveness of your current asbestos management strategy 
  • Identify areas that may require additional controls or remediation 
  • Prioritise asbestos removal or encapsulation projects 
  • Demonstrate due diligence in protecting building occupants 

Our experts will help you interpret the results and incorporate them into your asbestos management plan. 

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