Why is Testing for Metals Important?

Metals are natural substances that have high conductivity, malleability, and luster. Most elements on the periodic table are metals. They have many important functions in the environment, living organisms, and technological applications. Numerous metals are essential for ecosystems, but can become toxic at high levels, such as copper and iron.

Several metals are very toxic even at low levels, and these are referred to as “heavy metals.” Heavy metals have many applications in industrial, domestic, agricultural, medical, and technological applications which has led to prevalence in the environment. Heavy metals of particular significance are arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead, and mercury due to their widespread use and significant health concerns.

Heavy metals bioaccumulate, concentrating in the heart, brain, kidneys, bone, and liver. They displace other metals in these organs, disrupting their normal functioning and causing damage to the organs, which can result in severe health effects, including organ failure and cancer.