Mercury Analyzers & Mercury Monitors

Mercury analyzers are implemented in various settings to indicate the presence of this toxic element, which poses a clear and present danger to human health. Once common in household products such as thermometers and light switches, mercury (Hg) is now carefully regulated to help prevent accidental exposure. The intention is to reduce the risk of serious health consequences, such as kidney damage, neurological damage or worse. Mercury and its highly toxic organic compounds are still used by, or generated as byproducts of, a wide range of industries.

The Basics of Mercury Measurement

There are a number of different ways in which mercury analyzers can be used in the field or laboratory, which depend primarily on the sample matrix and form the element takes. There are three common forms of mercury — elemental, organic and inorganic. Elemental mercury is most commonly found in ambient air and other gases, or it can also be found in laboratory environments when there has been a spill. Field-portable mercury monitors or unattended vapor monitors are the mercury testers most commonly used in this scenario because they provide accurate, location-specific measurements.

Total mercury analyzers are used to measure the level of organic and inorganic mercury present in the body, typically through the measurement of biological fluids including blood and urine. The most common source for the ingestion of mercury is the consumption of contaminated fish. The presence of inorganic mercury compounds in the body is typically due to the presence of mercuric salts in the environment. Exposure to mining ores, crude oils and coal deposits are among the most frequently determined sources. Animal and plant tissues are also studied for their mercury content as a way to understand and monitor bioaccumulation from mercury contaminated environments. 

No matter what form it takes, the use of accurate, reliable mercury monitors is crucial for protecting public health and safety. Since 1978, Nippon Instrument Corporation (NIC) has specialized in the design and manufacture of quality mercury analyzers. AGS Scientific offers a complete range of NIC mercury analyzers for use and distribution in North America that are suitable for a wide range of monitoring applications. 

It’s the Law

Various national and international government regulations have been implemented over the years to tightly regulate the amounts of this toxic element that may be released into the air, soil and water. The Clean Air Act of 1970, for example, mandates tight regulation of various air pollutants, including mercury vapor. Similarly, the Clean Water Act and Safe Drinking Water Act were enacted to minimize the release of these pollutants into our waterways and drinking water supplies. Nevertheless, toxic mercury notoriously bioaccumulates in certain commercially important marine species. 

It is crucial for industries involved in activities that may generate toxic mercury or mercury compounds to carefully monitor any potential mercury output or release. Possessing accurate, robust mercury analyzers is essential for these industries, so they may operate safely, and remain in compliance with various global and federal regulations. 

AGS Scientific has the knowledge, expertise and experience to help you choose the right mercury analyzer for your specific needs. We have worked with companies across a wide range of industries to implement satisfactory monitoring programs. Our extensive knowledge of regulatory requirements enables us to guarantee your satisfaction as we help you choose the right mercury testers for your specific monitoring challenges.

The Global Leader in Mercury Detection Equipment

Since 2003, AGS Scientific has partnered with Nippon Instrument Corporation (NIC), headquartered in Osaka, Japan, to distribute these quality analyzer products. NIC is the global leader in the manufacture of laboratory, field and process mercury analyzers. These carefully engineered, time-tested products are suitable for the precise, accurate analysis of numerous sample types, including wastewater, ambient air, soil, foods, and hydrocarbon liquids and gases, among others.

A Wide Range of Solutions

After identifying your specific needs, we help you find the appropriate mercury detection equipment and work to implement proper installation. We also provide ongoing support throughout the life of your product. Click on any of the links on this page to learn more about our specific mercury analysis/monitoring products. Whether you require a laboratory bench mercury analyzer, a mercury vapor analyzer or a portable mercury monitor, we have the right mercury instrument for your needs. Methodologies and sample types range from cold vapor atomic absorption, to direct mercury by thermal combustion, to analysis of mercury in liquid and gaseous hydrocarbons, and more. To let our experts help you choose the right mercury analyzers for your needs, get in touch with us today.