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Following a successful audit, our asbestos analysis services are now also recognized by the German Accreditation Body.
At the end of 2018, just in time for the 25th anniversary of our laboratory, our analytical spectrum was expanded to include scanning electron microscopy. This expansion strengthened our capabilities in the field of material analysis and enabled us, among other things, to offer asbestos analyses.
The field of asbestos analysis may initially seem inconsistent, as the production and use of asbestos-containing products in Germany have been prohibited for more than 20 years. However, a large amount of asbestos is still present in existing structures. Due to its many beneficial properties, such as heat and acid resistance, asbestos was widely used in thermal insulation and the construction industry. However, as with any material, there are two sides, and the significant health risks posed by asbestos are now well established. Therefore, its use has been banned in Germany since 1995.
Nevertheless, the issue of asbestos is once again coming to the forefront. Topics such as housing shortages and climate change are increasingly bringing the energy-efficient renovation of older buildings – supported by KfW funding – into focus. During the renovation of these older buildings, such “hidden legacies” often come to light. However, the issue is not limited to the private sector. Asbestos and man-made mineral fibers (MMMF) have also been used, and in some cases are still used, in furnace construction for insulation and fire protection, as well as in window putty in old industrial buildings. A qualitative and/or quantitative analysis is essential not only for renovation and the necessary protective measures, but also for the proper disposal of the material.
Following a successfully completed audit in early 2020, our laboratory is now accredited for the determination of asbestos in technical products (detection limit 0.001 – 1%, e.g. roof or facade panels, floor coverings, fillers), the evaluation of indoor air filters, and the assessment of the carcinogenicity index of insulation wool.
If you have any questions or are interested in asbestos-related topics and further analytical services, Dr. Caroline Paprott (Tel.: +49 2762 / 9740-28 or caroline.paprott@horn-co.de) will be happy to assist you.
