1. Scope
1.1 This test method covers a procedure to: (1) identify asbestos in soil, (2) provide an estimate of the concentration of asbestos in the sampled soil (dried), and (3) optionally to provide a concentration of asbestos reported as the number of asbestos structures per gram of sample. 1.2 In this test method, results are produced that may be used for evaluation of sites contaminated by construction, mine and manufacturing wastes, deposits of natural occurrences of asbestos (NOA), and other sources of interest to the investigator. 1.3 This test method describes the gravimetric, sieve, and other laboratory procedures for preparing the soil for analysis as well as the identification and quantification of any asbestos detected. Pieces of collected soil and material embedded therein that pass through a 19-mm sieve will become part of the sample that is analyzed and for which results are reported. 1.3.1 Asbestos is identified and quantified by polarized light microscopy (PLM) techniques including analysis of morphology and optical properties. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) identification and quantification of asbestos is based on morphology, selected area electron diffraction (SAED), and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDXA). Some information about fiber size may also be determined. The PLM and TEM methods use different definitions and size criteria for fibers and structures. Separate data sets may be produced. 1.4 This test method has an analytical sensitivity of 0.25 % by weight with optional procedures to allow for an analytical sensitivity of 0.1 % by weight. 1.5 This test method does not purport to address sampling strategies or variables associated with soil environments. Such considerations are the responsibility of the investigator collecting and submitting the sample. A separate appendix covering elements of soil sampling and good field practices is attached. 1.6 Units-The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard. 1.7 HazardsAsbestos fibers are acknowledged carcinogens. Breathing asbestos fibers can result in disease of the lungs including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Precautions should be taken to avoid creating and breathing airborne asbestos particles when sampling and analyzing materials suspected of containing asbestos. (Regulatory requirements addressing asbestos are defined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (40 CFR Part 61, Subpart M and 40 CFR Part 763, Subpart E) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (29 CFR Parts 1910 and 1926). 1.8 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
This standard is needed to provide a systematic procedure for the collection, preparation, and analysis of soils. This test method will be used in field settings and laboratory settings by industrial hygienists, microscopists, and technicians.
Keywords
asbestos; PLM; polarized light microscopy; sieves; soil; TEM; transmission electron microscopy
The title and scope are in draft form and are under development within this ASTM Committee.
Citing ASTM Standards
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