You have samples you would like analyzed?

In order to submit samples for analysis it is best that our technicians understand the sample being submitted, as well as the results you expect to attain.

To assist us, please include the following in your submission:

  • Approx. volume/mass of your each of your samples
  • Expected concentration range
  • Sample preservation (e.g, %HCL)
  • Analyte(s) of interest

Sample Requirements:

Mercury Analysis in Water

Samples should be collected according to EPA 1669.

If filtration is done in the field (prior to submission)

  • Two PETG bottles, one filtered (250 mL) and one unfiltered (collection bottle remainder, approx. 250 mL). These two samples should be from a collection bottle that be at least 500 mL
  • Once filtration is complete the samples should both be preserved to 0.5% HCl. All samples should be maintained at 4C (+/- 2C) in the dark whenever feasible.
If filtration is not required
  • One sample bottle of 250 mL sample in a PETG bottle is sufficient. This should be preserved to 0.5% HCl.  The unfiltered and acid preserved samples are stable up to 90 days for THg analysis and 6 months for MeHg analysis.

*NOTE:  If you are sampling the same site for MeHg and THg you don't necessarily have to send two bottles. As long as they have been preserved with HCl and NOT BrCl. 

Mercury Analysis in Sediments

Preference to at least 1.0 g of freeze-dried sample. Alternatively, approximately 5.0 g of wet sample is sufficient. Samples should be stored in small sealed Ziploc bags or equivalent. Samples should be frozen (if wet) and shipped in ice packed coolers.

All samples should be maintained in the dark whenever feasible. The recommended holding time for frozen samples (-20C) is 4 years. [1] There is no established holding time limitation for freeze-dried samples.

Mercury Analysis in Fresh Tissue

Homogenized or representative sample of desired portion (e.g. liver, muscle tissue, fat, etc). At least 1.0 g of freeze-dried material or approximately 5 g of wet weight material. Samples should be stored in sealed Ziploc bags or equivalent. Samples should be frozen (if wet) and shipped in ice packed coolers. 

All samples should be maintained in the dark whenever feasible.  The recommended holding time for frozen samples (-20C) is 4 years.[1]  There is no established holding time limitation for freeze-dried samples

[1] Peterson, S.A., Peck, D.V., Van Sickle, J. et al. Arch Environ Contam Toxicol (2007) 53:411.  https://doi.org/10.1007/s00244-006-01237-6

ICP-MS Water Samples

All water samples must be filtered through a 0.45um pore diameter membrane filter. Acidity the filtered water sample to 2% HNO3 matrix.  Acidified samples should be stored at 4C and can be held up to 6 months before analysis.  Preferred sample volume for ICP-MS analysis is 9 mL.

ICP-MS Sediment and Fresh Tissue Samples

Preferred is freeze-dried samples.  Samples should be kept at 4C.  There is no established holding time limitation for solid samples.

 

Click here to download a "Request for Analysis Form pg 1" form.  Please use our template for additional samples "Request for Analysis Form pg 2".

If you require a project consultation prior to submitting your sample(s), please contact Biotron_analytical@uwo.ca. 

If requesting analysis for biological substances, please complete the