PLM & TEM Analysis | ASTM-Compliant Testing
PLM & TEM Analysis | ASTM-Compliant Testing
At IRIS Environmental Laboratories, we specialize in advanced soot, carbon black, and fugitive dust particle identification using Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The services are designed for:
Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Companies
Insurance Adjusters & Legal Teams
Fire Origin & Cause Investigators
Industrial Hygiene & Environmental Consultants
We deliver precise, court-defensible data to support claims, investigations, and remediation plans.
Combustion-related residues: soot, char, and ash
Carbon black vs. soot differentiation
Fugitive dust infiltration in HVAC and interiors
Particle origin tracing (natural vs. synthetic)
Surface wipe and bulk material analysis
PLM – Polarized Light Microscopy
Used for initial screening and classification of particulates. PLM is ideal for:
Differentiating combustion residues vs. dust
Identifying fibrous vs. granular particles
Quick turnaround for restoration response
TEM – Transmission Electron Microscopy
Provides ultra-fine resolution and element-level identification. TEM is crucial for:
High-sensitivity particle analysis in fire origin and cause
Differentiating between soot, carbon black, and fly ash
Supporting litigation or insurance disputes
Over a decade of experience in environmental microscopy
Trusted by insurance firms, adjusters, and industrial hygienists
Fast, defensible results with expert consultation
Fully certified and quality-assured lab practices
We provide:
Full particle identification with annotated micrographs
Laboratory findings aligned with ASTM methodology
Expert interpretation
Rush turnaround options available
ASTM D6602 – Standard Practice for the Determination of Carbon Black Structure by TEM
ASTM D3849 – Standard Test Method for Carbon Black—Morphological Characterization by Electron Microscopy
Surface wipes (walls, electronics, HVAC)
Bulk debris (insulation, drywall, furniture residue)
Airborne particulate filters
Settled dust from personal property or building surfaces
Ship your samples directly to our lab or contact us for courier service in urgent cases. Our chain-of-custody process ensures your evidence is legally sound and professionally documented.
Protect your clients. Defend your work. Uncover the truth. Let us help you determine what really happened — and how to fix it.
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