Technical Terms
X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Lead Paint Analysis quickly identifies and quantifies the presence of lead. It is commonly used in the analysis of lead-based paint, soils, sediments, dusts, ceramics and children's toys.
Lead-based paint contains lead, a heavy metal, that is used as pigment, with lead(II) chromate (PbCrO4 or "chrome yellow") and lead (II) carbonate (PbCO3 or "white lead") being the most common. Lead is also added to paint to speed drying, increase durability, retain a fresh appearance, and resist moisture that causes corrosion. Paint with significant lead content is still used in industry and by the military. For example, leaded paint is sometimes used to paint roadways and parking lot lines.