How to Obtain a Chemical Analysis of a Substance

If you have a strange substance in your water supply and are worried about contamination, or you think that rock in your backyard is a meteorite, then you may want to have a chemical analysis performed. There are many different avenues you can go for a chemical analysis, and each one has its strengths and weaknesses.

Instructions

• 1

  Check government agencies. If you're concerned about water or soil contamination, make an inquiry to the local health department or municipal water office. They can provide basic chemical analysis. If neither of those avenues provides satisfaction, contact your state environmental regulatory body or the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This chemical analysis should be free or of very little cost.

• 2

  Find a university or government laboratory, which will have sophisticated equipment for chemical analysis. If you have an idea of what area of science your substance may fall under, i.e., geological or biological, then contact the proper department. This route should also be free or of very little cost.

• 3

  Contact a private laboratory. Some private, profit-driven laboratories specialize in taking outside requests and performing tests for a fee. This typically involves DNA or other biological substances for paternity tests, but chemical analysis is another service offered. This is the most expensive route and could cost hundreds of dollars or more.

• 4

  Contact private industry. If your substance involves the product of a specific company, then that company may be willing to test the substance. Be aware, though, that its interests will lie with itself, and it may be unwilling to divulge any damaging findings. You should work through a lawyer to ensure your rights are protected.