SanAir’s Material Science Testing division helps clients uncover the origin of fires (including wildfires), material failures, and insurance claims.
Deploying the finest electron optics and preparation equipment, we facilitate restoration and redevelopment efforts in events such as fires (including wildfires) and associated property losses. We deliver reliable, accurate results efficiently, enabling our clients to quickly mobilize remediation efforts.
SanAir has extensive experience assisting with both qualitative and quantitative analyses to identify sources of origin and fire characteristics, and often supports investigative efforts to identify sources of product failure or contamination. Our technical staff holds advanced degrees in either Environmental Science, Forensics or Geology. These analysts also hold certificates from the International Association of Arson Investigators in thermometry, heat, heat transfer, and wildland fire investigations. Many analytical staff are also members of the ASTM D22 committee. All material analysts have successfully completed advanced training in fire and combustion analysis.
Clients whose needs extend to air testing benefit from the coordinated expertise of SanAir’s Specialty Environmental Testing division, which identifies hazardous gases (VOCs) and particulates from accidental releases and catastrophic events, such as chemical spills, train derailments, and other mishaps.
SanAir’s Lead & Metals Testing division provides additional resources for clients who need to determine when catastrophic events, such as fires, release toxic metals in the affected area.
Health Impacts
Wildfires and battery fires are a source of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and toxic gases, which can cause respiratory illness, asthma, organ damage, neurological damage, strokes and heart attacks, and ultimately cancer. Vulnerable populations, including the elderly, children, and people with comorbidities, are at greatest risk.
Carbon Black and Soot Analysis (Fire and Wildfire Events)
ASTM D6602 Carbon Black & Soot – Optics, Volatiles, STEM ASTM D6602 Char & Opaque Particles – Optics Only (PLM/RLM) IESO/RIA Standard 6001 – uses polarized light and reflective bright field and dark field to identify char and soot particles on tape lift samples of HVAC systems’ interior surfaces post-fire.
Material Science
We facilitate the identification of unknown contaminants unearthed as a by-product of other testing. SanAir uses gravimetric methods for airborne contaminants, nuisance dust, silica, and carbon black.
Optical and Full Particulate Identification Analysis
Gravimetric Methods
- NIOSH 500: Total Particulates (Nuisance Dust)
- NIOSH 600: Respirable (Nuisance Dust)
- NIOSH 5000 and NIOSH 5000 with TEM Confirmation: Carbon Black
- NADCA Vacuum Test for HVAC Systems (Particulate Matter)
Analytical Services
Carbon Black and Soot Analysis (Fire and Wildfire Events)
ASTM D6602 Carbon Black & Soot – Optics, Volatiles, STEM ASTM D6602 Char & Opaque Particles – Optics Only (PLM/RLM) IESO/RIA Standard 6001 – uses polarized light and reflective bright field and dark field to identify char and soot particles on tape lift samples of HVAC systems’ interior surfaces post-fire.
Material Science
We facilitate the identification of unknown contaminants unearthed as a by-product of other testing. SanAir uses gravimetric methods for airborne contaminants, nuisance dust, silica, and carbon black.
Optical and Full Particulate Identification Analysis
Qualitative and quantitative analyses of particulates, including:
Gravimetric Methods
- NIOSH 500: Total Particulates (Nuisance Dust)
- NIOSH 600: Respirable (Nuisance Dust)
- NIOSH 5000 and NIOSH 5000 with TEM Confirmation: Carbon Black
- NADCA Vacuum Test for HVAC Systems (Particulate Matter)
Particulate Matter
- PM 2.5
- PM 10