Wildfire Dust Analysis
Wildfires, which are a problem in many locations, can cause various forms of damage; from direct burning to soot contamination and reduced air quality. The soot, vegetative char, and ash produced by wildfires may mar and damage structures that are near a fire event. Those facing damage to their home or place of business from fire-related materials may need to show proof of such damage in order to file an insurance claim.
Method:
The wildfire analysis is designed to identify wildfire debris (soot, vegetative char, and ash) using a combination of Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) with Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS). Vegetative char and ash from wildfire related sources can be conclusively documented.
Information provided by the analysis:
- The presence or absence of fire related particles
- The relative loading of these particle types
- The presence of other look-alike materials that are not fire related
