Focus

Main techniques

• Determination of trace concentrations of selected elements by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)

ICP-MS is an ultra-trace analytical technique used to determine elemental concentrations in analysed samples. This technique enables the analysis of nearly all elements from lithium to uranium with a sensitivity ranging from units of ppt to hundreds of ppm.

• Determination of selected elements by Flame AAS 

Rapid quantitative analysis of selected alkali metals and metals in various types of liquids. Solid samples are converted into solution following appropriate preparation.

• Determination of selected metals by Electrothermal Atomisation AAS

A highly sensitive method enabling the determination of trace concentrations of selected analytes down to units of micrograms per litre. Solid samples are converted into solution using suitable methods.

• Determination of selected elements by ICP-AES

Atomic emission spectrometry enables multi-element determination of analyte concentrations in various types of samples across a wide concentration range, including the rapid identification of analytes in solutions. Solid samples are converted into solution using suitable methods. It is also suitable for trace analysis.

• Determination of mercury

Used for the determination of total mercury content in solid and liquid samples without the need for prior sample preparation (digestion, separation), with a limit of quantification of 1 µg/l or 10 µg/kg Hg.

• Determination of selected elements by XRF

A non-destructive analytical technique for determining the elemental composition of materials (metals, minerals, polymers), offering both quantitative and semi-quantitative analysis. It primarily analyses surface composition.

• UV-Vis Spectrometry 

Enables measurements across a wavelength range of 190–1100 nm. It is used for measuring absorbance, spectra, concentrations with a factor or automatic calibration curve construction, routine concentration measurements, kinetics, colour, transmittance, reflectance, and reaction kinetics.

• The laboratory offers materials leachability tests in accordance with applicable legislation
• Gravimetric determination

Gravimetric methods include the determination of moisture, ash, suspended solids, dissolved solids and inorganic salts, total sulphur and the calculation of specific sulphidity, carbonates, acid-insoluble residue in hydrochloric acid, and sodium carbonate in accordance with applicable standards.

• Determination of iron species
• Potentiometric determination of pH and determination of electrical conductivity.

Research group leader

Ing. Michaela Svobodová, Ph.D.

Email:

Focus

Main techniques

• Determination of methanol and isopropanol (IPA) in spirit drinks (GC/FID)

This analysis is used to determine the content of volatile alcohols in spirit drinks using gas chromatography with flame ionisation detection. The method is suitable for quality control and verification of compliance with legislative requirements.

• Determination of selected C1–C4 gaseous hydrocarbons by gas chromatography (GC-FID/TCD)

This analysis is used to determine low-molecular-weight hydrocarbons in gas mixtures. It is utilised for monitoring the composition and quality of, for example, technological and fuel gases.

• Determination of volatile organic compounds by headspace/GC-MS 

The method enables the determination of volatile organic compounds in samples without the need for complex sample preparation. It utilises a combination of headspace technique and mass spectrometry for reliable identification and quantification of substances.

• Determination of anions by ion chromatography with conductivity detection

Ion chromatography is used to determine selected anions in aqueous samples. The method is suitable for routine quality control of water, leachates, and other liquids.

• Screening of organic compounds by GC/MS 

Screening analysis enables the tentative identification of a wide spectrum of volatile organic compounds in a sample. It is primarily used for the rapid detection of unknown or undesirable compounds.

• Determination of chlorides in the solid phase 

Titrimetric determination of chloride content in solid materials (e.g., cements, slags, etc.) following appropriate sample preparation.

• Determination of combustible sulphur in fuels

This analysis is used to determine the sulphur content in fuels, which has a fundamental impact on their quality and environmental implications. The results are important for assessing compliance with legislative limits.

• Determination of gross calorific value 

Determination of the energy value of materials and fuels based on measuring their gross calorific value. The method provides essential information on the calorific value and energy potential of the sample.

• Determination of halogens in RDF

This analysis enables the determination of selected halogens in solid recovered fuels (RDF). It is used to check their chemical composition and assess their suitability for further utilisation.

• Determination of moisture

Simple and routine determination of water content in solid and liquid sample materials. Moisture is an important parameter influencing the quality, storability, and further processing of materials.

• Determination of C10–C40 hydrocarbons by gas chromatography (GC-FID)

The method is used to determine the content of heavier hydrocarbon fractions in various types of samples. It is primarily utilised for contamination assessment and the characterisation of petroleum substances.

• Determination of PCBs in waters and the solid phase

Analysis of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) in liquid and solid samples following extraction and preconcentration. The method is designed for monitoring hazardous persistent organic pollutants in the environment.

• Determination of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) by liquid chromatography

Determination of PAHs in waters and solid materials using liquid chromatography following prior extraction and preconcentration. The method is suitable for environmental analyses and evaluating sample contamination by hazardous substances.

Research group leader

Ing. Zdenek Lacný

Email: