Metals
Mercury
A trace metal requiring careful sample handling and preservation.
What is Mercury?
Mercury is a heavy metal that occurs in several chemical forms, each behaving differently in water.
Why test for it?
Mercury is included where industrial history, geology or a specific product claim makes it relevant. Its low reporting limits demand strict contamination control.
Where can it come from?
- Industrial legacy discharges
- Natural mineral sources
- Historic uses in manufacturing
How is it measured?
Determined by ICP-MS or dedicated mercury analysis on samples preserved in suitable containers, reported in µg/L.
What does my result mean?
Because mercury is measured at very low concentrations, the container type and preservation used are reported with the result.