AREC Environmental Group provides dependable asbestos laboratory analysis using recognized industry methods for both bulk material identification and airborne fibre counting. Our in‑house lab supports your project with clear results, fast turnaround, and quality you can trust.
Laboratory Methods
PLM (Polarized Light Microscopy) - Bulk Asbestos Identification
PLM is the standard method used to determine whether building materials contain asbestos. Samples collected from suspect materials (such as drywall, plaster, flooring, insulation, cement products, and mastics) are analyzed under polarized light microscopy to confirm asbestos presence and type.
Our laboratory analysts are trained in asbestos identification using PLM by Peter M. Cooke of MICA, and we maintain proven accuracy through ongoing participation in proficiency testing programs. This ensures results that are consistent, defensible, and suitable for regulatory and project planning needs.
PCM (Phase Constrast Microscopy) - Air Sample Fibre Counting (NIOSH 7400)
PCM air analysis using NIOSH Method 7400 is the accepted approach for counting airborne asbestos fibres during occupational monitoring and air clearance sampling. Air is drawn through a 25 mm mixed‑cellulose ester filter cassette using a calibrated pump and flow rate designed to achieve an optimal fibre density for accurate counting.
In the lab, the filter is prepared to make it transparent, then examined under phase‑contrast microscopy at high magnification using a Walton‑Beckett graticule. Fibres are counted using NIOSH criteria (based on fibre length and aspect ratio) to calculate airborne fibre concentrations for comparison with applicable exposure limits or clearance standards.
To ensure ongoing quality, AREC participates in the AIHA IHPAT proficiency program for PCM air sample analysis.
