Ive spent the past few weeks learning how to use this piece of equipment...
Its not easy, temperature changes effect the readings, other stuff in the sample effects the readings, its a time (and argon) consuming task.
But its essential, let me explain why.
Parts per billion, or ppb is the level at which lead is dangerous to people.
1 part per billion is like 7 people out of the entire human population.
This machine can determine that with such accuracy and repeatability its a miracle of science, but as a sophisticated instrument it is temperamental and requires A LOT of skill to use.
Its no XRF (point and shoot) its no Fluoro-Spec (spray and shine), it requires breaking down a sample, taking that liquid, heating and ultimately atomizing the sample whilst shining a lead colored light through it and measuring how much absorbance happens.
The problem with this method is that the sample may contain other things, (like salt) these other things may absorb some of the light, or they may interfere with the ability of the lead atoms to absorb the light, causing higher or lower readings.
Unfortunately, while salt is the easiest thing to break down into a liquid, it may be the HARDEST thing to test for.
But after literally weeks of trial and error Ive gotten it down. Repeatable and accurate numbers. have been achieved, I'm not sure how many people will read this article but i just had to write it.
Determining low levels of lead in things like water, food, spices and blood is important.
In fact the US goverment ran a competition to find the next gen lead-in-blood detector, 1 million dollars towards its development for the winner.
I missed the deadline but I hope they still take a look at what I come up with.
Science is exciting, I know inorganic analysis doesn't sound very intriguing but it saves lives and will no doubt shape peoples futures..
Imagine what it would be like to have 6 more IQ points, I know I cant. Wish I could though, it would mean I'd be just ever so slightly smarter - hopefully more empathetic and able to live life more easily.
Test your house if your going to have kids.
The key dates are 1978 for very dangerous paint, 1988 for a lead water service line. beyond that check your dishes, their toys and try not to let them play in the soil.
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