QROS utilises a number of analytical techniques depending on the contaminant under investigation and/or the limits of detection required. For the most part we investigate hydrocarbon and heavy metal contaminants and both these normally use fluorescence as a method of detection, either in the ultraviolet (UV) spectrum for hydrocarbons or in the X ray spectrum for heavy metals. Both these techniques have been utilised in labs for some years but have only recently been become reliably available as hand held or portable instruments for field use.

 Other analytical techniques employed rely on spectrophotometric determination for a range of different contaminants, Anodic stripping voltammetry (ASV) for Heavy metals at ppb levels and traditional potentiometric sensors probes for pH.

QROS  also develop on site analysers, either in house or in partnership with a third party. QROS is currently working on a novel system for the specific screening of chlorinated solvents at part per billion concentrations in soil and water.

Typical Contaminants

QROS provide on-site analysis for the following contaminants. Click on the buttons on the right to find out more about the techniques. QROS can also adapt or develop methods for other contaminants.  

Hydrocarbons – Fuels Oils (diesel, petrol, jet fuel, heating oil etc), Heavy Oils, Insulating oils, Lubricating oils etc

Poly Aromatic Hydrocarbons - Tars, Creosotes and Combustion of Organic compounds, Petroleum derived compounds. Sum of the target 16 PAHs, total C10 - C35 aromatics and Benzo-a Pyrene

Heavy Metals – Lead (Pb), Zinc (Zn), Copper (Cu), Arsenic (As), Mercury (Hg), Cadmium (Cd), Nickel (Ni), Chromium (Cr), Selenium (Se) etc.

Ammonia, Chloride, Cyanide, Sulphate, Phenols, Nitrate

Chlorinated Solvents

Acidity (pH)

PCB (Polychlorinated Biphenyl)