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Malvern Panalytical Scientific Award 2023

Our 2023 Scientific Award is now open – and there’s a €5,000 prize for the best entry.
Entries close August 31st – you’ve still got time!

ASBpro and Alpha Tracker: Streamlining Asbestos Screening from Site to Report

Fast asbestos screening is only part of the equation. Just as important is what happens after the scan.

Every asbestos inspection generates valuable information, from photographs and material locations to inspection notes, risk assessments, and compliance records. While technologies like ASBpro have transformed how quickly materials can be screened in the field, many organisations still rely on disconnected systems to manage that information.

As the distributor of ASBpro, Portable Analytical Solutions (PAS) is excited to see the technology now integrate directly with Alpha Tracker, helping asbestos professionals connect rapid screening with efficient digital reporting.

The result is a more streamlined workflow that supports faster decision-making, improved record management, and greater operational efficiency.

Closing the Gap Between Field Screening and Compliance

ASBpro has become a valuable tool for organisations looking to rapidly screen suspect materials using advanced near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy.

Delivering results in under 10 seconds, the handheld analyser enables inspectors to assess materials immediately without waiting for laboratory turnaround times before taking the next step. However, asbestos management involves much more than obtaining a screening result.

Every inspection also requires information to be documented and managed, including:

  • Material locations
  • Site photographs
  • Inspection notes
  • Survey information
  • Risk assessments
  • Compliance records

Traditionally, much of this information has been transferred manually between field equipment and reporting systems, creating unnecessary administration and increasing the potential for inconsistencies.

The integration between ASBpro and Alpha Tracker helps simplify that process.

How the Integration Supports Daily Workflows

Using wireless connectivity, ASBpro screening information can be transferred directly into the Alpha Tracker platform alongside other inspection data.

This allows teams to bring together:

  • Screening outcomes
  • Photographic evidence
  • Material information
  • Survey documentation
  • Inspection records

within a single digital environment.

Rather than managing separate devices and software platforms independently, users can maintain a more complete project record from the initial inspection through to final reporting.

For organisations managing multiple projects, this creates a more connected and efficient workflow.

Benefits for Surveyors, Inspectors and Consultants

Time spent manually transferring information is time that could be spent on site.

By integrating ASBpro with Alpha Tracker , asbestos professionals can reduce administrative tasks while improving the quality and consistency of project records.

Key advantages include:

Less Manual Administration

Information collected during screening can flow directly into project records, reducing duplicate data entry.

Faster Project Delivery

Inspection reports can be completed more efficiently with screening results already incorporated into reporting workflows.

Better Project Traceability

Images, screening results, material records, and inspection notes remain linked throughout the life of the project.

Improved Compliance Documentation

Maintaining a connected digital record helps support auditing, reporting, and quality assurance processes.

Applications Across Multiple Industries

The integration offers practical benefits across a broad range of asbestos-related activities.

Asbestos Surveys

Rapid screening results can be linked directly with surveyed materials and inspection records, helping improve documentation accuracy.

Waste and Recycling

Operators can screen suspect materials while maintaining detailed digital records of inspections and waste handling activities.

Construction and Demolition

Consultants and contractors gain faster access to screening information while keeping project documentation organised within a single workflow.

Emergency Response

Where rapid decisions are required, field screening results can be captured, stored, and shared quickly to support incident management.

Insight: Strict regulations and established testing protocols should prevent asbestos from entering the market. Many countries, particularly Australia, have long-standing bans supported by robust compliance frameworks. But asbestos is still being missed. Learn more here: Why Asbestos Is Still Being Missed—Even When Testing Exists

Why ASBpro Continues to Lead the Way

At the heart of this integration is the ASBpro handheld asbestos analyser.

Developed using advanced near-infrared spectroscopy, ASBpro enables rapid, non-destructive screening for all six regulated asbestos fibre types directly in the field.

Key capabilities include:

  • Screening results in under 10 seconds
  • Detection of all six regulated asbestos types
  • Integrated photo capture
  • Lightweight handheld design (approximately 150g)
  • Wireless connectivity
  • Simple point-and-scan operation

These features allow inspectors to obtain valuable information immediately while remaining highly portable for everyday use.

A Smarter Approach to Asbestos Management

With regulators tightening asbestos testing rules across the globe, it is vital that the asbestos industry continues to embrace technologies that improve both field operations and digital record management. Rapid screening enables professionals to identify potential risks sooner, while integrated software platforms make it easier to manage inspection data, reporting, and compliance requirements.

Together, ASBpro and Alpha Tracker provide a solution that supports both objectives.

As the distributor of ASBpro, Portable Analytical Solutions is proud to offer technologies that help organisations improve efficiency, strengthen compliance, and make better-informed decisions in the field.

Because effective asbestos management isn’t just about identifying risk quickly. It’s about ensuring that every result becomes part of a connected workflow that supports safer, smarter outcomes.

If you have any questions about the ASBpro, simply get in touch. We’re here to assist.

What Is A NIR Spectral Signature?

How NIR Spectral Signatures Help Identify Materials

This signature is influenced by the chemical bonds within the material, especially bonds involving hydrogen, such as O-H, C-H and N-H. These patterns can help NIR systems compare an unknown sample against known reference data or calibration models.

A spectral signature does not usually act like a simple visual fingerprint on its own. Reliable interpretation depends on suitable reference data, consistent sample presentation and a well-built model for the material or property being analysed.

Looking Into NIR Spectral Analysis?

You can learn more about near-infrared spectroscopy and how it is used for fast material analysis.

Portable Analytical Solutions also supplies NIR analysers for practical testing across suitable materials and applications.

For help with NIR options for your work, contact Portable Analytical Solutions or visit Portable Analytical Solutions.

How Does NIR Quantify Chemical Composition?

How NIR Uses Light Response To Estimate Composition

The analyser collects a spectrum from the sample, then compares that response against a calibration model built from known reference samples. This model allows the NIR system to estimate the concentration or proportion of specific components, such as moisture, protein, fat, fibre, polymers, or other measurable properties.

The quality of NIR quantification depends on the strength of the calibration model, the consistency of the sample, and how closely new samples match the materials used to build the model. When properly calibrated and validated, NIR can provide fast, repeatable chemical composition results without destroying the sample.

Looking Into NIR For Composition Analysis?

You can learn more about near-infrared spectroscopy and how it supports fast chemical composition analysis.

Portable Analytical Solutions also supplies NIR analysers for practical testing across suitable materials and applications. For help choosing the right NIR analyser for your sample type, contact Portable Analytical Solutions or visit Portable Analytical Solutions.

What Affects NIR Accuracy?

Key Factors That Influence NIR Results

Sample condition can also affect accuracy. Moisture, temperature, particle size, surface texture, colour, thickness and presentation can all change how near-infrared light interacts with the material, which may influence the final reading.

Consistent testing procedures help improve reliability. Using the same sample preparation, measurement position, calibration method and validation checks can reduce variation and support more repeatable NIR results.

Looking Into NIR Accuracy For Your Application?

You can learn more about near-infrared spectroscopy and how it supports fast material analysis.

Portable Analytical Solutions also supplies NIR analysers for practical testing across suitable materials and applications.

For help choosing the right NIR approach for your sample type, contact Portable Analytical Solutions or visit Portable Analytical Solutions.

Why Cannot XRF Measure Organic Compounds?

Why XRF Is Not Suited To Organic Compound Analysis

Organic compounds are mainly made up of light elements such as carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen. These elements are difficult or impractical for standard XRF systems to measure reliably, especially hydrogen, which XRF cannot detect. Because of this, XRF cannot identify organic compounds in the same way techniques designed for molecular analysis can.

XRF can still be useful when an organic material contains inorganic elements or contaminants, such as metals, minerals, fillers, or additives. However, it will report the elemental composition rather than naming or measuring the organic compound itself.

Considering XRF For Elemental Analysis?

You can learn more about XRF testing and analysis for fast, non-destructive elemental identification.

Portable Analytical Solutions also supplies handheld XRF analysers for practical on-site testing across a range of materials.

For help choosing the right analyser for your application, contact Portable Analytical Solutions or visit Portable Analytical Solutions.

How Does Moisture Affect XRF Readings?

Why Moisture Can Change XRF Results

Wet samples can also create inconsistent results if the moisture is not evenly distributed. One area of the sample may contain more water than another, which can change the reading depending on where the analyser is placed.

For more reliable XRF results, samples should be tested under consistent conditions wherever possible. Drying, homogenising, and preparing samples in a repeatable way can help reduce moisture-related variation and improve confidence in the analysis.

Considering XRF For Moist Or Variable Samples?

You can learn more about XRF testing and analysis for fast, non-destructive elemental analysis.

Portable Analytical Solutions also supplies handheld XRF analysers for practical on-site testing across different sample types.

For guidance on choosing the right analyser for your application, contact Portable Analytical Solutions or visit Portable Analytical Solutions.

How Does Sample Density Affect XRF Results?

Why Sample Density Matters In XRF Testing

Dense and well-packed samples usually give more stable results because the X-rays can interact with a more consistent volume of material. This is especially important when testing powders, soils, crushed samples, or materials with mixed particle sizes, where uneven packing can change how representative the reading is.

For better XRF accuracy, samples should be prepared as consistently as possible. Flat surfaces, even particle size, firm packing, and repeatable testing methods can all help reduce variation caused by density differences.

Considering XRF For Material Testing?

You can learn more about XRF testing and analysis for fast, non-destructive material identification.

Portable Analytical Solutions also supplies handheld XRF analysers for on-site elemental analysis across a range of applications.

For help choosing the right option for your work, contact Portable Analytical Solutions or visit Portable Analytical Solutions.

How accurate are handheld NIR devices?

What Determines Accuracy in Handheld NIR Testing

Handheld NIR analysers use near-infrared light to measure molecular information from a sample. They are commonly used for rapid screening, identification, and quantitative analysis where suitable reference data and calibration models are available.

The accuracy of a handheld NIR device is strongly linked to the calibration behind the result. A model built from representative samples, reliable reference laboratory data, and a relevant concentration range will generally perform better than a model used outside its intended scope.

Sample condition also matters. Particle size, moisture, temperature, surface texture, mixing, container type, and optical contact can all affect the spectrum collected by the instrument. For this reason, handheld NIR is most reliable when the sample is presented consistently, and the method has been validated for the application.

Handheld NIR should not be treated as a universal replacement for laboratory analysis. It is often most useful for fast, non-destructive field or process decisions, with laboratory testing used to build, verify, or periodically check the calibration model.

Reviewing Handheld NIR for Your Application

For more detail on the measurement principle, review PAS’s overview of Near Infrared Spectroscopy technology. To compare suitable instruments, explore PAS’s NIR analysers through Portable Analytical Solutions, or contact our team to discuss your material, calibration needs, and accuracy requirements.

Is NIR analysis non destructive?

What Non-Destructive NIR Testing Means in Practice

Near-infrared spectroscopy works by directing NIR light at a sample and measuring the light that is absorbed, reflected, or transmitted. The resulting spectrum provides information about molecular features, especially bonds such as C-H, O-H, N-H, and S-H.

Because the technique is optical, it usually does not require reagents or destructive sample preparation. This makes it useful for rapid checks of powders, grains, polymers, pharmaceuticals, food ingredients, minerals, and other materials where preserving the sample is important.

However, non-destructive does not always mean no preparation. Some samples may still need to be mixed, ground, presented in a suitable container, or measured under controlled conditions to achieve reliable results. The suitability of NIR depends on the material, required measurement, calibration model, and sample presentation.

Considering NIR for Non-Destructive Testing

For more detail on the method, review PAS’s overview of Near Infrared Spectroscopy technology. To compare suitable instruments, explore PAS’s NIR analysers through Portable Analytical Solutions, or contact our team to discuss your sample type and measurement requirements.

Meta description: Learn whether NIR analysis is non-destructive, how near-infrared testing preserves samples, and when sample preparation may still be required.

What materials cannot be analysed using NIR?

Understanding NIR Material Limitations

Near-infrared spectroscopy is mainly used to measure molecular vibrations associated with bonds such as C-H, O-H, N-H, and S-H. This makes it useful for many organic materials, agricultural products, polymers, pharmaceuticals, minerals with water or hydroxyl content, and other materials with suitable molecular features.

Materials that are purely elemental, metallic, or inorganic with no relevant molecular absorption features are usually poor candidates for NIR. For example, NIR is not typically used to determine elemental composition in metals, alloys, or most dry inorganic salts because these materials do not produce the type of molecular spectral response that NIR relies on.

NIR can also be limited by sample presentation. Very dark, highly absorbing, highly reflective, coated, or optically dense materials may produce weak or distorted spectra. Mixtures can be analysed when calibration models exist, but NIR is not a universal identification tool and should be validated for the specific material, property, and measurement conditions.

Assessing Whether NIR Fits Your Application

For more details on the method, review PAS’s overview of Near Infrared Spectroscopy technology. To compare suitable instruments, explore PAS’s NIR analysers through Portable Analytical Solutions, or contact our team to discuss your material type and measurement requirements.

Meta description: Learn what materials cannot be analysed using NIR, including metals, elemental samples, dry inorganics, and materials with weak or unusable spectral signals.