Abstract: Use of high throughput methods to analyze samples for toxic elements originating from industrial hygiene and environmental sampling are described. These methods utilize optical detection methods using plates with arrays and microwells. Methods to fabricate samples in such plates are described. The invention is particularly illustrated by demonstrating its applicability for analysis of beryllium by fluorescence and uranium by phosphorescence. This invention also discloses the use of improved filtration method and use of reagents with low background signals.

Abstract: A safer, low-cost practical method of dissolving beryllium or a beryllium compound including beryllium oxide in a sample is disclosed. This method discloses use of acidic solutions under mild heating conditions to dissolve beryllium and its compounds. These solutions may then be used to quantitatively analyze for beryllium so as to be able to determine the amount of beryllium in the sample. These solutions may also be combined with fluorescent dye indicating solutions to determine beryllium by fluorescence. A preferred fluorescent dye indicating solution contains a dye (10-hydroxybenzo[h]quinoline-7-sulfonate) which specifically binds with beryllium under basic conditions.

Abstract: A low-cost practical method of determining beryllium or a beryllium compound thereof in a sample is disclosed by measuring fluorescence. This method discloses optical filters for use with low cost fluorometers which may be used to quantitatively determine the presence of beryllium. This method may be extended to estimate particle size distribution for particles comprising Beryllium. A method is also disclosed to store solutions for extended period of time so that these materials are stable during transportation and in the labs.

Abstract: A method of determining beryllium or a beryllium compound thereof in a sample is disclosed by measuring fluorescence. This method discloses improved sample preparation methods, particularly for refractory beryllium materials. The method also discloses methods to improve the detection limit of beryllium including use of optical filters with specific characteristics for selecting the emission wavelengths of the fluorescence signal.

Abstract: A method of determining beryllium or a beryllium compound thereof in a sample is disclosed by measuring fluorescence. This method discloses improved sample preparation methods, particularly for refractory beryllium materials. The method also discloses methods to improve the detection limit of beryllium including use of optical filters with specific characteristics for selecting the emission wavelengths of the fluorescence signal.

Abstract: Use of high throughput methods to analyze samples for toxic elements originating from industrial hygiene and environmental sampling are described. These methods utilize optical detection methods using plates with arrays and microwells. Methods to fabricate samples in such plates are described. The invention is particularly illustrated by demonstrating its applicability for analysis of beryllium by fluorescence and uranium by phosphorescence. This invention also discloses the use of improved filtration method and use of reagents with low background signals.