[Use of the transmission electron microscope in the analysis of wine contamination by asbestos]

A method for assessing chrysotile asbestos fibers in wines is described. Particles are isolated from wines samples by means of microfiltration through Nuclepore membrane. Retained particles are entrapped in a carbon layer which is observed under a transmission electron microscope fitted with an energy dispersive spectrometer. Chrysotile fibers identification is based on the determination of three characteristics- namely, morphology, elemental composition and crystal structure. Fibers are counted and measured (length and diameter) on an aliquot of the preparation area: numerical concentrations and their statistical significance are calculated. Several factors affect the accuracy and precision of this method. The feasibility for numerous laboratories to use this method is discussed.