2017 Volume 30 Issue 1 Pages 34-43
Using a field emission electron probe micro analyzer (FE-EPMA), the methods for screening and source identification of flame retardants (phosphate flame retardant and brominated flame retardant) and heavy metals (Sb, Pb and Cr) in the dust inside a car’s interior were investigated. Effects of experimental parameters, such as dust immobilization methods and magnification in FE-EPMA mapping, were also studied. The following results were obtained: 1) Of the four methods tested (carbon tape, Aron Alpha, Adfix, and Mounting wax), Adfix wax was determined to be the most suitable for dust immobilization in terms of stability and time to immobilization; 2) Low magnification FE-EPMA mapping was determined to be suitable for screening flame retardants as it allows averaging of concentrations in dust; 3) High magnification FE-EPMA mapping could help identify sources of flame retardants as it enables analysis of individual dust particles.
