ICP-OES (inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry) is the standard method for quantifying trace metals in water at concentrations down to parts per billion. If you are managing process water, monitoring a well, or preparing discharge data for a local authority, understanding what the method does and does not measure will help you commission the right test.

What ICP-OES measures in water

A standard ICP-OES water panel at Drift Core Lab quantifies 20 to 30 elements simultaneously, including lead, arsenic, cadmium, mercury (by cold vapour AAS as a complement), chromium, copper, zinc, manganese, and iron. The detection limits for most elements are in the range of 1 to 10 micrograms per litre, which is well below the thresholds set in the Japanese Water Supply Act (Suido-ho) and the Water Pollution Control Law.

Comparing results to Japanese regulatory thresholds

Our water quality reports include a comparison column showing the measured concentration alongside the relevant threshold from the Suido-ho (for drinking water) or the Water Pollution Control Law (for discharge). This makes it straightforward to identify which parameters, if any, require attention. We do not interpret the regulatory implications for you, but the data is presented in a format that your environmental compliance team can use directly.

When facilities typically need this test

Common triggers include: annual monitoring requirements under a local authority permit, a change in upstream land use near a well, a complaint from downstream users, or a change in process chemistry that may affect discharge composition. Some clients run the test as a precautionary baseline before a facility expansion or renovation, which is a reasonable approach given that establishing a clean baseline is much easier before work begins than after.

Sample collection and submission

Water samples should be collected in clean polyethylene bottles (we can supply these on request) and shipped to our Hiroshima facility within 48 hours of collection for most parameters. Samples for mercury analysis require a separate acid-preserved bottle. The submission form asks for the sample source, collection date and time, and any relevant context about the facility or the reason for testing.

The Water Quality Starter Screen is priced at ¥34,000 and covers pH, turbidity, TDS, nitrates, and six heavy metals. For a broader panel or a custom parameter list, contact us at lab@driftcorelab.com.