TERA Environnement joins the WhiteBox Alliance – Ultra-cleanliness Expertise Platform

Posted on 26 February 2026 - 17h03 by TERA ENVIRONNEMENT

TERA Environnement joins the WhiteBox Alliance – Ultra-cleanliness Expertise Platform

More and more sectors are requiring cleanrooms and strict contamination control. These include microelectronics, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, food processing, automotive, batteries and defense. To meet these growing demands, manufacturers need comprehensive support, and this has led to the creation of an alliance able of pooling expertise and resources: the WhiteBox Alliance

TERA Environnement joins the WhiteBox Alliance: a new step towards collaborative innovation

TERA Environnement is proud to announce that it has joined the WhiteBox Alliance, a collective of the most innovative players in the field of industrial ultra-cleanliness.

Joining the WhiteBox Alliance is a natural extension of our 20-year track record of helping the microelectronics and healthcare industries control chemical contamination of air and surfaces.

By joining this alliance, TERA Environnement confirms its commitment to accelerating innovation in high-tech industries, and to becoming even more involved in environments requiring expertise and performance.

This collaboration reinforces our commitment to offering cutting-edge solutions, while at the same time making us part of a dynamic in which the pooling of know-how, equipment and space becomes a real lever for industrial transformation.

The WhiteBox Alliance: pooling expertise in the field of ultra-cleanliness!

The WhiteBox Alliance brings together a broad ecosystem of players all united around a common goal: to make ultra-cleanliness accessible, concrete and operational.

In particular, the collective relies on a unique “Clean Room – Proof of Concept” demonstrator, a place designed to experiment, train, test and accelerate the transition from idea to solution. Designed to fuel innovation, performance and traceability, this collaborative platform becomes a veritable catalyst for manufacturers in search of reliable, immediately actionable technical solutions.

“Clean Room – Proof of Concept” demonstrator at Villard Bonnot, France

This project has been financed by the Région Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes and by the Government as part of the Plan France 2030.

To date, the collective has more than 30 members with complementary skills, pooling their expertise to offer a complete and unique solution in the field of ultra-cleanliness:

Cleanroom solutions & equipment
Manufacturers & industrial technologies
Metrology, chemical contaminant analysis, monitoring & sensors
Engineering, support, consulting & technical expertise
Integrators, digital solutions & traceability
High-precision processes & chemistry
Training, demonstration & applied innovation

To find out more about the vision and universe of the alliance :

See also the Salles Propres magazine article dedicated to the WhiteBox Alliance

The WhiteBox Alliance will be raising its profile at trade shows starting in 2025

The WhiteBox Alliance is already very active in the field, with several participations at major trade shows.

In particular, it was present at Tech&Fest, where it presented its collaborative approach to industrial innovation, its demonstrators, and all the solutions co-developed with its partners. At the 2026 event, held on February 4 and 5 at Alpexpo, the collective showcased its model for pooling skills and infrastructures, illustrating in concrete terms its role as a catalyst for the high-tech and deeptech sectors.

TERA Environnement also took part in the SEMICON 2025 trade show in Munich last November, a key event where several members of the WhiteBox Alliance were present, reinforcing the synergy between our expertise.

PTS, Nicotra Gebhardt (Regal Rexnord), TERA Environnement, members of the WhiteBox Alliance at SEMICON 2025

Do you have any questions or need more information?

Let’s get in touch!

Members of the WhiteBox Alliance are at your disposal.

TERA Environnement has been helping its customers control chemical contamination in their cleanrooms for over 20 years!

New accreditations for PFAS, nitrosamines and nitrous oxide analysis

Posted on 5 November 2025 - 16h44 by TERA ENVIRONNEMENT

New accreditations for PFAS, nitrosamines and nitrous oxide analysis

New accredited analyses for indoor air, workplace air and ambient air

Following our latest audit, COFRAC (Comité Français d’Accréditation) has decided to extend TERA Environnement’s accreditation for physico-chemical analysis of indoor air, workplace air and ambient air.

We are delighted to announce that our Crolles laboratory has obtained the extension of its COFRAC accreditations (n°1-5598)* for the analysis of three new families: PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkylated substances) in ambient air, nitrosamines in ambient air, indoor air and workplace air, and nitrous oxide (N₂O) in workplace air.
A great reward for all our teams, who have thus seen the quality and reliability of their analytical know-how recognized.

* accreditation of our Crolles site 1-5598, scope available at www.cofrac.fr

Analysis of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkylated substances) under COFRAC accreditation in ambient air

In the context of environmental monitoring near industrial sites, TERA Environnement has developed a method for measuring PFAS in atmospheric fallout and quartz filters by LC-MS/MS.

After several months’ work, we are delighted to announce that we are the first laboratory in France to be accredited COFRAC Essais* for PFAS analysis on gauges and quartz filters in ambient air.

This offer is part of a wider range of PFAS analyses, see our PFAS brochure:

As part of the French inter-ministerial PFAS plan of April 2024 , and following the decree of October 31, 2024 on the analysis of PFAS in atmospheric emissions from incineration plants, TERA Environnement subsidiary ToxiLabo has developed PFAS analysis according to the experimental standard XP X43-126.

To complete this offer, TERA Environnement also offers analysis of PFAS in soil gases using XAD-7 tube sampling, and is currently funding a doctoral thesis that will provide a complete, validated methodology for measuring and analyzing PFAS in indoor air.

Want to find out more about our PFAS analyses?

Nitrosamine analysis under COFRAC accreditation in ambient air, indoor air and workplace air

Some nitrosamines are listed in Annex XVII of the REACH Regulation as category 1B carcinogens, such as Dimethylnitrosamine (NDMA) and Nitrosodipropylamine (NDPA).

Exposure to nitrosamines occurs in various sectors, including the rubber, pharmaceutical and food industries.

Since 2024, TERA Environnement has been analyzing nitrosamines by LC-MS/MS on Thermosorb N. We are now the first laboratory to be accredited* for the analysis of 8 nitrosamines in ambient air, indoor air and workplace air.

List of nitrosamines under COFRAC accreditation

N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), CAS: 62-75-9
N-Nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA), CAS: 55-18-5
N-Nitrosodipropylamine (NDPA), CAS: 621-64-7
N-Nitrosodiisopropylamine (NDIPA), CAS: 601-77-4
N-Nitrosodibutylamine (NDBA), CAS: 924-16-3
N-Nitrosomorpholine (NMOR), CAS: 59-89-2
N-Nitrosopiperidine (NPIP), CAS: 100-75-4
N-Nitrosopyrrolidine (NPYR), CAS: 930-55-2
N-Nitrosomethylethylamine (NMEA), CAS: 10595-95-6

Want to find out more about our nitrosamine analyses?

COFRAC-accredited analysis of nitrous oxide (N₂O) in workplace air

Used in anesthesia as an adjuvant and analgesia for short-term medical procedures, nitrous oxide has applications in emergency surgery, obstetrics, dentistry and veterinary practice. Its use has also been diverted to recreational purposes, due to its euphoric, relaxing and sometimes hallucinogenic effects.

Acute exposure may cause digestive, neurological or respiratory disorders, or even cardiac problems in high doses. Chronic exposure to low doses can cause neurological and hematological damage, and impair fertility and development. .

The European Commission plans to classify nitrous oxide as a gas toxic to human reproduction and the nervous system by February^1, 2027.

Afin de suivre les expositions au N₂O, TERA Environnement analyse le protoxyde d’azote dans différents milieux :

Workplace air: active or passive sampling on zeolite tubes with analysis by ATD GC TCD and now under COFRAC* accreditation for N₂O analysis in workplace air on zeolite tube.
Ambient air & industrial emissions: sampling on canisters or multi-layer bags, followed by GC-TCD analysis.

Want to find out more about our nitrous oxide analyses?

TERA Environnement has over 20 years’ experience in air analysis.

Consult our analysis, sampling media and equipment rental services

Do you have any questions or do you need a quote ? Contact us to find out more about our analysis services.

Participation in the fifth PFAS congress held in Paris

Posted on 21 July 2025 - 18h38 by TERA ENVIRONNEMENT

Participation in the fifth PFAS congress held in Paris

Our commitment to PFAS analysis : a trajectory launched in 2024 and constantly evolving

In November 2024, the Group’s laboratories were present at the PFAS Technical Day organized by AXELERA to present the advances made by Toxilabo laboratory (Nantes) concerning analyses for industrial hygiene and atmospheric emissions.

As announced at the event, developments also continued at TERA Environnement (Crolles) during the first half of 2025. This has enabled us to further expand our range of PFAS (Perfluoroalkylated and Polyfluoroalkylated Substances) analyses in the air sector, and to offer complementary solutions for ambient air, atmospheric deposition and soil gas sampling, which are now available.

So it was only natural that the Group’s laboratories decided to showcase their new analytical offerings by exhibiting at the 5th PFAS international congress, held in Paris from June 17 to 20, 2025.

Our participation in the 5th International PFAS Congress in June 2025

Over 600 people attended the 4-day event, which featured a full program of relevant conferences.

Find out more about the topics covered over the course of the different days (June 17-20, 2025).

As an exhibitor, we had the pleasure of meeting and exchanging views over 4 days with players involved in PFAS monitoring. This mobilization is fully in line with our proactive commitment to the challenges posed by these emerging substances

Toxilabo, represented by Kévin VIERA DE MAGALHAES
TERA Environnement, represented by Marie BLANCHEMANCHE

Presentation of our multi-matrix offer for PFAS analysis in air at the congress

This event enabled us to present our new ambient air analysis offer for :

atmospheric deposition via Owen gauge sampling
ambient air via high-flow samplers

PFAS analyses are performed on a PerkinElmer LC/MS/MS (QSight® 420 LC/MS/MS).
PerkinElmer has dedicated a scientific article to this subject.

In addition to LC/MS/MS analysis, our laboratory also offers analysis of volatile PFAS such as 6:2 and 8:2 FTOH andtrifluoroacetic acid (TFA) .

And it doesn’t stop there!

The Group’s laboratories are also working to expand their offer in the field of indoor air quality (IAQ). Since 2024, TERA Environnement has been funding a thesis with the Laboratoire Chimie Environnement d’Aix-Marseille, France, to establish a comprehensive, validated methodology for measuring and analyzing PFAS in indoor air.

The issue of PFAS is evolving rapidly, both in scientific and regulatory terms. At TERA Environnement, we remain fully committed to keeping abreast of these developments, advancing our methods and sharing our progress.

Don’t hesitate to contact us via our online form to keep up to date with our work and the latest news on PFAS monitoring and analysis in all areas of air!

TERA Environnement has over 20 years’ experience in air analysis.

Consult our analysis, sampling media and equipment rental services

Do you have any questions or do you need a quote ? Contact us to find out more about our analysis services.

Your preferred partner for soil gas assessment and site supervision

Posted on 7 July 2025 - 13h19 by TERA ENVIRONNEMENT

Your preferred partner for soil gas assessment and site supervision

On decontamination or construction/demolition sites, air quality is a major issue for health, safety and the environment. TERA Environnement puts its expertise at the service of your projects to guarantee rigorous, responsive monitoring.
As an active member of the “Polluted Sites and Soils” working groups run by BRGM (Bureau de Recherches Géologiques et Minières) and UPDS (Union des Professionnels de la Dépollution des Sites), TERA Environnement is widely recognized for its expertise in air analysis on polluted sites and soils.

TERA Environnement offers a comprehensive range of services for contaminated sites and soils:

Soil gas assessment
Occupational exposure assessment
Indoor and outdoor ambient air measurements
Monitoring fine particles and atmospheric fallout
Measurement of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkylated substances) and microplastics

Why choose TERA Environnement?

A 100% independent laboratory at the exclusive service of its customers
Personalized technical support and direct access to our engineers, available by phone
Support in designing sampling campaigns (choice of compounds, sampling media, quantification limits, etc.).
Proven responsiveness, with quotations sent quickly and results available on short notice
A wide range of equipment available: sampling racks, pumps, microsensors, etc.
A customer satisfaction rate in excess of 99% (source: 2024 satisfaction survey)

A complete analytical offering : provision of supports and equipment to support your analyses

TERA Environnement offers a wide range of analytical services:

Extensive screening of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), from 5 to 50 major compounds, or analysis of targeted compounds according to your specific needs
Gaseous mercury analysis with low quantification limit (5 ng/support) under COFRAC accreditation; accreditation 1-5599, scope available on cofrac.fr (performed on SKC passive badge in outdoor ambient air and on hopcalite 500 mg tube in outdoor ambient air or soil gas).

This offer also includes the provision of adapted equipment:

More than 150 canisters, the ideal sampling medium for analysis of sulfur and oxygen compounds, light VOCs (carbon number < C6) and VOC screenings
Rental of connected monitoring stations for real-time monitoring (NEMo stations for PM, NO₂ and VOC monitoring by PID)
Rental of weather stations to contextualize measurements
Provision of Owen gauges, DIEM plates, active and passive supports, sampling pumps

Emergency analysis : TERA Environnement’s DNA

Some worksites may have to be suspended while awaiting analysis results. To limit these delays, TERA Environnement offers an emergency air analysis service, available within 24, 48 or 72 working hours.

This service can be activated even on weekends and public holidays, thanks to our on-call system (conditions and rates available on request).

Some of our customer references in 2025

Rehabilitation of the former Mobil refinery in Frontignan, France

Duration: 4 years (2022-2026)
Antea Group – Séché

TELT construction site
(Tunnel Euralpin Lyon Turin)

Duration: 8 years (2023-2031)
Ginger Burgeap

Safety work on the massive slag deposits in the Calanques of Marseille

Duration: 4 years (2024-2028)
Antea Group

VOC, sulfur compound and dust measurements

Monitoring objectives:
- Worker exposure
- Air handling unit efficiency
- Impact on the environment and local residents

> Urgent delivery of results within 48 to 72 hours.

Discover the measurement solutions offered by our laboratory

Real-time monitoring of PM 10 and PM 2.5

Monitoring objectives:
- Impact on local residents

> Availability of online air quality bulletins:

https://www.telt.eu/fr/les-enjeux/environnement/observatoire-environnement/

Discover the measurement solutions offered by our laboratory

Dust and metal measurements

Monitoring objectives:
- Impact on local residents
- Possible adjustment of work implementation

Missions :
- Antea Group: zero assessment, interpretation and site monitoring
- TERA Environnement: equipment rental and air and atmospheric fallout analyses

Discover the measurement solutions offered by our laboratory

*Consult our scopes of accreditation: Accréditation Cofrac Essais 1-5598 et 1-5599, list of sites and scopes available on cofrac.fr

Scope of our Crolles laboratory: 1-5598 Fuveau laboratory: 1-5599 Scope of our Fuveau laboratory: 1-5599

TERA Environnement has over 20 years’ experience in air analysis and contamination control.

Consult our analysis, sampling media and equipment rental services

Do you have any questions or do you need a quote ? Contact us to find out more about our analysis services.

Invisible yesterday, analyzable today : spotlight on microplastics

Posted on 22 May 2025 - 13h17 by TERA ENVIRONNEMENT

Invisible yesterday, analyzable today : spotlight on microplastics

What are microplastics?

Microplastics are tiny particles of synthetic polymers, generally defined as less than 5 millimeters in size. They have become a major concern due to their ubiquitous presence in the environment and their potential effects on human health and ecosystems.

There are two types of microplastics:

Primary microplastics, which are intentionally manufactured in a reduced size : this is the case of microbeads and flakes in cosmetics or cleaning products, industrial granules, etc.
Secondary microplastics, which result from the degradation of larger plastics under the effect of sun, wind, water or mechanical wear. Examples include synthetic textile fibers, fragments of plastic bags, tire dust, etc.

Where do we find microplastics in our environment?

Secondary microplastics make up the majority of microplastics present in the environment. They are found in:

In oceans, soil, food, drinking water and air.
They can be transported over long distances by wind or ocean currents.

Below is a scheme illustrating the main sources and pathways of microplastics in the environment.

Why are micoplastics a concern for our health and ecosystems?

The toxicity of a plastic particle depends largely on its size, shape, composition and ability to bind with other chemicals present in the ecosystem. Larger, more rigid particles can lodge in the intestines of consumers and cause intestinal obstruction, while smaller particles and fibers (nano) can have metabolic effects.

The growing production of plastic over the last century has led to an increase in plastic waste, resulting in global contamination by microplastics. Resistant to degradation, plastics can persist in the environment for decades, posing risks to flora and fauna.

Particles can be ingested, inhaled or – for sufficiently small nanoplastics – absorbed through the skin; their toxicity depends on their size, shape and composition.

Microbial communities (biofilms) can also form on the surface of these particles. These biofilms may contain pathogens and other toxic substances, increasing toxicity and adverse effects on the ecosystem population.

How to measure microplastics in the lab?

ISO standards play a crucial role in standardizing microplastics analysis methods, but there are currently very few of them.

ISO 24187: 2023 : Principles for the analysis of microplastics in the environment including air, including particle size classification and sample preparation.
ISO 16094-2 and ISO 16094-3 : Methods for the analysis of microplastics in water, using FTIR and Raman spectroscopy, as well as thermo-analytical techniques such as pyrolysis-GC-MS

IR spectroscopy

European regulations on the analysis of microplastics in drinking water include specific recommendations for the use of infrared (IR) or Raman optical micro-spectroscopy. These methods are preferred for their reliability in detecting low concentrations of microplastics: “These low levels are more reliably detectable by IR or Raman optical micro-spectroscopy methods than by thermo-analytical methods.” Therefore this method was preferred by the commission for microplastics analysis.

What does TERA Environnement offer for the detection and analysis of microplastics?

TERA Environnement has been offering infrared microscopy analysis of microplastics in various environmental media since 2024 : air, water, soil.

TERA Environnement’s initial focus was on monitoring construction sites and coastal landfill reclamation work, with the objective of “zero plastic waste at sea”. It began by analyzing microplastics in ambient air using passive sampling via dipsticks.

In order to master all the matrices involved in the study of coastal landfills, microplastic analysis was deployed in surface water, groundwater, and seawater.

The analysis of microplastics in soils, a logical follow-up to the site survey, is carried out with the help of a partner laboratory for sample pre-treatment.

Gauge for sampling microplastics
in ambient air

At the same time, TERA Environnement has developed the analysis of microplastics by infrared microscopy on the other aerial environments that the laboratory is used to treating.

he European CSRD directive calls for the evaluation of all microplastic discharges from the industries concerned; TERA Environnement therefore offers analysis of microplastics in atmospheric emissions.

Assessment of workers’ exposuresition to microplastics is also offered by TERA Environnement.

It’s important to emphasize that this critical purification stage requires highly specialized expertise, which our team has developed and perfected over the years, thanks to the wide range of samples we have analyzed.

IR image of a sample containing
microplastics

TERA Environnement has over 20 years’ experience in air analysis and contamination control.

Consult our analysis, sampling media and equipment rental services

Do you have any questions or do you need a quote ? Contact us to find out more about our analysis services.

World Asthma Day – The importance of air pollutants characterization

Posted on 7 May 2025 - 13h24 by TERA ENVIRONNEMENT

World Asthma Day – The importance of air pollutants characterization

Asthma, a chronic disease that’s important to diagnose

World Asthma Day, set up by the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA), took place this year on May 6, 2025. It aims to raise awareness of this chronic respiratory disease among the general public and healthcare professionals.
Asthma is a persistent inflammatory disease of the bronchial tubes, often linked to allergic factors. It manifests itself through intermittent respiratory symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness and sometimes sputum. In some cases, these symptoms can evolve into severe attacks. According to the WHO, it is the most common chronic disease in children. Some 339 million people worldwide suffer from asthma.

In France, an estimated 4 million people suffer from asthma, including many children. Among adults, 15-20% of cases are work-related. Occupational asthma is the most common respiratory disease in industrialized countries. It is caused or aggravated by inhalation of irritating substances in workplace, such as isocyanates, metals or wood dust.

In addition, between 2016 and 2019, Santé publique France assessed the impact of exposure to ambient air pollution on several diseases. This study highlighted a link between exposure to nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5), and the development of respiratory pathologies, particularly asthma in adults and children.

TERA Environnement helps you monitor air quality

In this context, air quality monitoring is an essential prevention lever. TERA Environnement contributes to this approach by offering solutions for measuring and analyzing various atmospheric pollutants, such as NO₂ (under COFRAC Essais* accreditation) and PM2.5, in outdoor environments with the provision of passive or active media. In this monitoring context, we also offer the provision of NEMO-connected measuring stations enabling concentrations to be tracked in real time.

Our expertise also extends to air quality in workplace. We support you in your monitoring initiatives by offering targeted analyses, such as metal, dust and wood dust analysis (under COFRAC Essais* accreditation), or isocyanate analysis by ToxiLabo laboratory, part of Groupe TERA. These analyses enable us to assess exposure and limit risks to workers’ health.

*Consult our scopes of Cofrac accreditation Tests 1-5598 and 1-5599, list of sites and scopes available on cofrac.fr

Scope of our Crolles laboratory: 1-5598 & Scope of our Fuveau laboratory: 1-5599

Consult our air analysis and sampling media services

Do you have any questions or do you need a quote? Contact us to find out more about our analysis services.

Extending our expertise in crystalline silica analysis

Posted on 24 April 2025 - 18h04 by TERA ENVIRONNEMENT

Extending our expertise in crystalline silica analysis

Crystalline silica exists mainly in three forms: quartz (the most common), cristobalite and tridymite. It can be released in dust form during various activities (cutting, sanding, demolition, quarrying…) and is essential in many fields, but it is important to note that inhalation of its particles can be hazardous to health.

Crystalline silica is an abundant natural material found in many sources:

Sand: Quartz is the most common form of crystalline silica and is widely found in sand.
Gravel and clay: These materials also contain quartz.
Rocks: Granite and other rock types are important sources of crystalline silica.
Building materials: Concrete, brick, mortar, plaster and other building materials contain crystalline silica.

Effects of crystalline silica and regulations

Exposure is mainly by the respiratory route, and can cause irritation, chronic bronchitis and even pulmonary fibrosis (silicosis). Crystalline silica is also classified as a known human carcinogen (CIRC Group 1).

In order to protect workers, the French Labour Code strictly regulates its use (articles R.4412-59 to R.4412-93) and sets binding occupational exposure limit values (VLEP) (article R. 4412-149) for the respirable fraction:

Quartz: 0,1 mg/m³
Cristobalite and tridymite: 0,05 mg/m³

The French Labor Code also sets a VLEP for mixtures of silica and other dusts (articles R.4412-154 and R.4412-155).

Our expertise in work environment / professional exposure

To meet the requirements of the French Labor Code, TERA Environnement has been offering analysis of the respirable fraction of crystalline silica on PVC and foam filters in workplace air at its Fuveau laboratory since 2023. In addition, we also carry out analyses of respirable dust on the same media, under COFRAC testing accreditation.

Consult our scope of accreditation Cofrac Essais 1-5599 : Scope of our Fuveau laboratory: 1-5599

With several years’ experience in crystalline silica analysis, we have expanded our services to include analysis of crystalline silica in outdoor ambient air and on surfaces.

New offer: ambient air and surface contamination control

Crystalline silica is highly volatile and can disperse beyond work areas and impact the environment.

To assess the impact of this dispersion, we propose to take samples from :

Leckel / partisol: dust and crystalline silica analysis on 47 mm PVC filter.

And the media now available:

Owen gauge: analysis of dust, crystalline silica and metals.
DIEM deposition plate: dust and crystalline silica analysis.

Wipes

DIEM brochure

Owen gauge

We are also extending our expertise to the high-tech sector, where control of surface contamination is crucial.

In this context, TERA Environnement now offers crystalline silica measurement on wipes, to check for residues on sensitive surfaces.

As for silica analysis on foams or PVC filters, samples are prepared as follows:

1 - Calcination of sample in muffle furnace

2 - Recovery of calcined sample in solvent

3 - Analysis of crystalline silica by X-ray diffractometry (XRD)

Consult our scopes of accreditation in Workplace Air: Accréditation Cofrac Essais 1-5598 et 1-5599, list of sites and scopes available on cofrac.fr

Scope of our Crolles laboratory: 1-5598 & Scope of our Fuveau laboratory: 1-5599

Consult our Workplace Air Analysis and Sampling Media services

Do you have any questions or do you need a quote? Contact us to find out more about our analysis services.

TERA Environnement adapts to new IAQ standards

Posted on 1 April 2025 - 16h20 by TERA ENVIRONNEMENT

TERA Environnement adapts to new IAQ standards

TERA Environnement completes its support offer for the INTAIRIEUR® label

Our laboratory is expanding its range of Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) analyses to meet the requirements of the new INTAIRIEUR® label protocol (published on August 1, 2024), for the measurement of pollutants in service sector buildings.

The INTAIRIEUR® tertiary label applies to offices, early childhood establishments, educational buildings, hotels and healthcare centers that are committed to improving indoor air quality. It helps future occupants to perpetuate an approach initiated by the builder.

Enhance your Indoor Air Quality with TERA Environnement!

A complete package for monitoring VOCs, aldehydes and fine particles (PM1 and PM2.5)

TERA Environnement’s offer includes the supply of sampling media, the performance of analyses – some of which are COFRAC accredited* – and the rental of measuring stations for continuous monitoring.

Sampling media

Laboratory analysis

Measurement stations

The INTAIRIEUR® label, more than just a reference for TERA Environnement

Our laboratory is sharing its extensive experience in indoor air testing by contributing to the drafting of the INTAIRIEUR® protocol.

TERA Environnement has been carrying out INTAIRIEUR® label analyses since its creation, and can help you implement your campaigns by advising you on sampling conditions.

And always an IAQ offer adapted to each of the main Building Certification standards…

BREEAM®, HQE, LEED, WELL™, INTAIRIEUR®: each standard has its own pollutants of interest, its own analysis methods and its own sampling protocol.
Our laboratories offer a tailored package to meet each of your measurement needs: media, analyses, sampling equipment and continuous monitoring.

Click below to find out more about IAQ standards

Personalized support

At TERA Environnement, we offer personalized support for every project. We work in partnership with you to develop a pollutant measurement plan tailored to your needs and constraints. We guide you through the certification process, offering you the benefit of our advice and experience in these fields.

More than 20 years’ experience in air analysis, particularly of indoor air!

In addition to regulatory requirements (LAB REF 30) and environmental labels, TERA Environnement offers a wide range of indoor air quality services to help you :

understand the origin of pollution: outgassing of materials via in situ or ex situ measurements,
sampling at the most opportune moment: sick building syndrome (SBS), odor problems, etc.
test the efficiency and safety of purifers
qualify material emissions in controlled enclosures.

TERA Environnement participates in the INTAIRIEUR® and HQE label working and review groups, demonstrating the laboratory’s commitment to the field of indoor air quality.
And for even more comprehensive support, TERA Environnement makes it easier to carry out sampling campaigns in the field, by posting videos online to facilitate the use of sampling media.

See our accredited Indoor Air measurements:

*Scope of our Crolles laboratory: 1-5598 available on cofrac.fr/en

Find out more about our indoor air analysis, sampling media and equipment rental services.

Do you have any questions or do you need a quote? Contact us to find out more about our analysis services.

Emergency air analyses to meet Lubrizol Circular requirements

Posted on 12 March 2025 - 11h02 by TERA ENVIRONNEMENT

Emergency air analyses to meet Lubrizol Circular requirements

What is the “post-Lubrizol reglementation” ?

In 2012, the European Parliament introduced the 2012/18/EU directive known as “Seveso 3”. This directive lays down rules for the prevention of major accidents which involve dangerous substances, and the limitation of their consequences for human health and the environment, with a view to ensuring a high level of protection throughout the Union in a consistent and effective manner. It was transposed into French law by decree 26/05/14 relative to prevention of major accidents involving lower and upper-tier establishments.

A few years later, following a fire at the Lubrizol factory in Rouen (France) this decree was completed with circular n°2020-1168 of 24/09/20, known as the “Lubrizol” circular. It requires operators of Seveso sites to set up internal emergency plans, train staff in incident procedures and provide sampling and environmental analysis facilities to assess the impact of an accident. Sources INERIS (The French National Institue for Industrial Environment and Risks): decree no. 2020-1168 of 24/09/20 and order of 26/05/14 .

INERIS has set up RIPA (a French network bringing together organisms with an accreditation for sampling and analyses) to help manufacturers find competent companies offering solutions in line with the Lubrizol circular. It brings together samplers and laboratories specialized in air quality analysis and monitoring of atmospheric pollutants, but above all capable of reacting in emergency situations. TERA environnement joined RIPA in 2023, confirming our capabilities in terms of analytical performance, the reliability of our analytical methods and our responsiveness to accident situations. On the one hand, we provide ready-to-use sampling media to respond to any incident, and on the other, we offer emergency post-accident analysis (<24 hours after receipt of samples).

Why choose our lab ?

1 – Reactivity:

This word is the one our customers associate with TERA Environnement when asked to characterize our laboratory in a single term. TERA Environnement’s values include being as close as possible to your needs, and responding as quickly as possible. In line with this same proactive and reactive approach, a system of on-call duty has been set up for several years now, covering weekends and public holidays. We can therefore receive and analyze your samples on a daily basis, and send you an analysis report within the same timeframe.

Source: 2024 satisfaction survey

2 – Experience and professionalism :

With over 20 years’ experience in air analysis under tight deadlines (in 24 hours or less) and a member of RIPA since 2023, we have undeniable experience in managing post-accident situations. It’s also worth noting that, back in 2014, our laboratory was able to work concretely on the sampling matrix for odorous compounds in post-accident situations.

3 – More than just an analysis laboratory :

TERA environnement will help you set up your emergency plan and provide you with all the necessary sampling equipment (canister, passive supports, etc.) as required by the Lubrizol Circular. In an emergency situation, the laboratory and its team will also support you throughout the analysis process, providing case follow-up and technical support to answer any questions you may have about crisis management.

Take a look at the analyses commonly proposed in the Lubrizol Circular.

The canister: excellent support in the event of an accident

The canister is an alternative sampling medium to the TEDLAR bag. It consists of a spherical vacuum canister with a SiloniteTM coating on the inside. This coating prevents the absorption of molecules on the walls, guaranteeing more accurate and representative analyses. TERA environnement has been carrying out air analyses on canisters for 20 years, giving us in-depth expertise and guaranteeing the reliability of our results.

Sampling can be carried out instantaneously or over several hours using a Veriflow flowmeter, offering the flexibility to adapt to analysis requirements. A wide range of compounds can be detected, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), mercaptans, siloxanes and other air pollutants critical in post-accident situations.

Why is the canister the medium of choice for post-accident sampling?

Stability of molecules after sampling: Unlike other media, the canister preserves the integrity of the gases and vapors collected over a longer period.
Reduced risk of contamination: The vacuum system and internal lining limit interactions between the sampled air and the container wall.
Quick and easy to use: Easy to use, the canister requires no pre-treatment of samples, and fits perfectly into emergency protocols.
Compliance with regulatory requirements: Its use is recommended within the framework of the Lubrizol circular for improved accuracy and reliability of analyses.

TERA Environnement, your trusted ally for managing emergencies and demanding projects with guaranteed results in less than 24 hours, 7 days a week!

Consult our air analysis, equipment rental and supply services.

Do you have any questions or do you need a quote? Contact us to find out more about our analysis services.

Measurement of quaternary ammoniums in workplace air

Posted on 20 February 2025 - 16h00 by TERA ENVIRONNEMENT

Measurement of quaternary ammoniums in workplace air

What are quaternary ammoniums?

Quaternary ammoniums are a family of chemical compounds derived from ammonium (NH₄⁺). Their general structure comprises a cationic moiety consisting of a nitrogen atom linked to four alkyl chains and a halogen atom (usually chlorine). They are mainly used for their disinfectant and biocidal properties. Quaternary ammoniums are classified by generation according to their chemical evolution and antimicrobial efficacy. In all, there are five generations of quaternary ammoniums. Two of the five generations are detailed below:

1^st generation: quaternary ammonium Benzalkonium chlorides (BAC) – CAS: 8001-54-5, mainly used in household products, antiseptic solutions and veterinary products. This generation comprises compounds with “alkyl” chains from C₈ to C₁₈.

2^ndgeneration: quaternary ammoniums Alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chlorides (ADBAC) – CAS: 68424-85-1, used as hospital disinfectants or industrial cleaners, with a broader spectrum of action than the first generation.

Properties and uses of quaternary ammoniums

Quaternary ammoniums are chemical compounds with disinfectant, surfactant and antistatic properties. Widely used in cleaning, cosmetic and industrial products, they eliminate bacteria, viruses and fungi by destroying their cell membranes. Although effective, they also present health risks (irritation, allergies).

In the respiratory tract, acute exposure to vapors or aerosols can cause :

Irritation of the nose, throat and lungs
Acute lung disease

Chronic exposure can lead to allergic manifestations. A few cases of occupational asthma and rhinitis caused by quaternary ammoniums have been reported: PubMed and INRS sources.

The main sectors concerned by the use of this family of compounds are presented below.

Workplace air / Occupational exposure

Hospitals, clinics and retirement homes

Risk of exposure to cleaning staff, nurses and hospital workers through intensive use of quaternary ammonium-based disinfectants for cleaning surfaces and medical equipment.

Cleaning and maintenance companies

Risk to staff using disinfectant solutions on a daily basis in offices, schools, hotels, airports, etc.

Pharmaceutical laboratories and industries

Risk of exposure for laboratory technicians and production workers when using quaternary ammoniums for sterilization of equipment and surfaces.

Other sectors may also be concerned, such as food processing and catering (disinfection of production lines and work surfaces), cosmetics or chemical industries manufacturing household products.

How do you measure quaternary ammoniums in the workplace?

Several methods have been published for measuring quaternary ammoniums in the workplace, one of which involves pumping air through a tube filled with XAD-2 (active sampling): sources INRS and PubMed.

Our laboratory can help you with these samples by providing you with XAD-2 sampling tubes and sampling pumps.

Why trust us with your quaternary ammoniums measurements ?

TERA Environnement offers quaternary ammonium measurement using a method adapted from two papers published on PubMed: HPLC-UV analysis of tubes filled with XAD-2.

We are able to measure around ten compounds among first-generation (BAC, CAS: 8001-54-5 from C₈ to C₁₈) and second generation quaternary ammoniums (ADBAC – CAS: 68424-85-1).

Analysis of quaternary ammoniums by HPLC-UV after active sampling on XAD-2 tube

HPLC-UV analysis of quaternary ammoniums

Contact us to find out more about our media supply and analysis services.

Do you have any questions or do you need a quote? Contact us to find out more about our analysis services.

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