ASBESTOS FIBER CHARACTERIZATION USING AN ANALYTICAL TRANSMISSION ELECTRON MICROSCOPE AND A MICROFILM READER

A novel method for asbestos fiber characterization has been developed that combines the use of an analytical transmission electron microscope (ATEM) with a microfilm reader. ATEM time is reduced because the fibers are searched, counted, and sized with a microfilm reader and then identified on the ATEM. A nickel finder's grid is employed that allows the selection of grid openings for examination in a truly random manner. The use of photographic negatives for counting and sizing fibers facilitates and improves laboratory quality control programs. In comparison with traditional methods, this method produces nearly identical results more quickly and at a lower cost. Asbestos fibers of all types collected from a wide range of occupational and environmental settings can be accurately and efficiently quantified, sized, and identified by this accurate and efficient method.