Methylmercury

Mercury is widespread and persistent in the environment due to its use in many products and its emission from combustion processes. In the environment, mercury is found in both inorganic forms (such as elemental mercury and ionic mercury) and various organic compounds and complexes. Methylmercury (MeHg), the predominant organic form present in the environments, can bioaccumulate up the food chain in aquatic systems (see image below) and lead to high concentrations of MeHg in predatory fish. When consumed by humans, methyl mercury can result in an increased risk of adverse effects in highly exposed or sensitive populations.

Due to the tendency of MeHg to bioaccumulate in the environment, extremely low concentrations can have a large impact. Measurements at concentrations in sub part per trillion or even parts per quadrillion are required.  Any measurement of chemicals in that concentration range, especially when mercury is ubiquitous in the environment, poses challenges on avoiding cross contamination.  While there are techniques available to minimize the contamination and to measure methyl mercury at low concentrations, very few organizations have the experience needed to do so routinely. 

Eurofins was involved with the development of these techniques and even served as the reference lab for the creation of the EPA 1600 series methods including methyl mercury analysis and sample collection.   In addition, we offer a full suite of services related to low concentration mercury measurements such as elemental, ionic, methyl, ethyl, and dimethyl mercury in waters, soils, sediments and tissues within our specialty metals group. Please do not hesitate to contact us for more information.