Eurofins Nihon Soken K.K.

"Overwhelming 15 units of SEMs" open up the future of asbestos analysis

15 units of scanning electron microscope(SEM)s are lined up on a single floor. Even our JEOL employees would cry at a glance saying "a scene that I have never seen". Eurofins Nihon Soken K.K. (Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture) provides services of environment testing, measuring, and analysis and is ranked at the top of asbestos analysis industry. The 15 units of SEMs are playing a part of the analysis line.

*As of December 2025

Sudden increase of asbestos analysis requests

Asbestos has the properties of fire and heat resistance, sound-absorption, heat-insulation, and electrical nonconductivity. In addition, as it is narrow and easy to process, it was called "dream material" in the past and widely used as building material in Japan. However, according to the estimation by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, the demolition works of non-governmental buildings using steel frame construction and reinforced concrete using materials that may contain asbestos continue to be increasing, to mark the peak around in 2028. Accompanied by the demolition work, there is a risk of causing health damage by the scattered asbestos fibers. The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism have mandated that prior to the demolition or renovation of buildings above a certain size or specific structures, an investigation must be conducted to determine whether asbestos is present, and the results must be reported via an electronic system. This system has been in effect since April 1, 2022. Due to such introduction of laws, analysis survey to check whether asbestos is contained in the building has suddenly increased.

For analysis with higher reliability

Asbestos analysis in building materials in Japan checks whether asbestos is contained or not (qualitative analysis) by using Japanese law, JIS A 1481-1 or -2, according to the manual by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare "Advance Asbestos Analysis Manual based on the regulations on Ordinance on Prevention of Asbestos Hazards (2nd Version). JIS A 1481-1 (IDT:ISO22262-1) uses stereo microscope (STEREO) and polarized light microscope (PLM), while JIS A 1481-2 (Japan's unique analysis method) uses x-ray diffraction system (XRD) and phase contrast microscope (PCM). Eurofins Japan tries to improve confirmed accuracy of analysis result, by utilizing scanning electron microscope (SEM) in addition to those analysis methods. Moreover, there are several JEMCA instructors (Japan Environmental Measurement and Chemical Analysis Association) certified by the Asbestos Analysis Method Instructor, contributing to improvement of asbestos analytical technology in Japan.

I trained my dynamic visual acuity first

I was shown how asbestos fibers were observed using an SEM. The stage with sample on kept moving continuously without stopping. Their hands constantly manipulate the joystick, moving the field of view displayed on the screen from left to right. After descending one step, it moves from right to left, then descends another step and moves from left to right... zigzagging to scan the sample thoroughly. Their eyes follow the moving screen, and when they catch an object of interest passing by, they go back to the original field of view and check it in detail. They search for asbestos by quickly moving the field of view by fully utilizing functions of Zeromag^*1 and Live Analysis^*2.

We were surprised at the speed of the moving field of view and the response of the person handling the analysis. The moving speed is set twice the speed of default. "When I was assigned to this department, I first trained my dynamic visual acuity". Says, Marika Murase (Technical Manager, Microscope Team, Hamamatsu Analysis Group) "When I know the sample contains asbestos but still cannot find it under SEM, I end up staring even harder". Says, Yoij Usuku (Technical Manager, Microscope Team, Hamamatsu Analysis Group). Quick and certain detection is possible by visual inspection by an experienced person- said he.

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• *1 A function of interlocking holder graphics, optical image, and SEM image. This makes it easier to search the field of view when several samples are set on the holder, or when specific location is observed.
• *2 A function to always display characteristic X-ray spectrum and elemental map during observation. Once a fiber that seems an asbestos is found, simply enlarging the image allows for reliable and efficient determination of whether it is asbestos or not from the composition of fiber.

All of their SEMs are "JSM-IT200 InTouch Scope™" with EDS (Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrometer) which allows elemental analysis. The reason of their original introduction of the JSM-IT200 is the ease of use. Later, when they install additional SEM, they considered an SEM of so-called tabletop type, "we selected the same model, by focusing on the ease of operation" after all (Mr. Ishizuka). As it has good ease of use, its operation can be learned in a couple of days even by a person who is new to the electron microscope. Additionally, using the same model had the advantage of simplifying new employee training, since anyone within the group could serve as an instructor.

Instrument that can endure during heavy use and comprehensive service structure

Ms. Ai Oishi (Manager, Business Promotion Group) believes that they will have many demands in the future, since the peak of asbestos analysis demand will come after 2028 based on the estimation by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. She also forecasts that SEMs will continue satisfying such needs in the long term. According to them, they are trying automation by using particle analysis software and others.

According to them, they are trying automation by using particle analysis software and others.

In recent years, analytical instruments in general have been oriented for automation tailored to various fields and situations, in order to provide easier data acquisition to anyone. But for such attempt, burden on the instrument is increasing. The importance of durability and long-term support based on comprehensive service structure is going to increase. As an established Japanese manufacturer with history, JEOL takes pride in the durability of its instruments and service and support capabilities and will continue to strive to satisfy these demands.

Related Link

Eurofins Nihon Soken K.K.

JSM-IT210 Scanning Electron Microscope