PID

Photoionization Detector (PID) For On-Site Environmental Testing​

AEL believes in using the right tools when approaching an environmental site investigation. For sites with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the soil or groundwater, this can involve the use of a photoionization detector (PID) for on-site environmental testing.

VOCs are unstable compounds, usually originating from solvents. When present in soil and exposed to oxygen, they readily off-gas into air which can be a significant risk to human health.

A PID uses an ultraviolet light source to break down VOCs into positive and negative ions. The charge of the ions is measured by the PID, and this is represented as a measure of the concentration of VOCs in air. PIDs are non-selective, meaning that all VOCs are detected, and cannot be separated out in the testing results. Laboratory analysis is required to determine concentrations of individual VOC compounds, but on-site testing can provide a solid indication of samples that require further testing.

The process of detecting VOCs within soil, through on-site testing, requires the collection of VOCs in an enclosed space (before they can escape). This is generally accomplished by placing a small amount of soil in a container (jar or new plastic storage bag), about half full. The container is then sealed for a period of time to allow the VOCs to off-gas (headspace development). The PID is then inserted into the container to measure the concentration of VOCs.

Our Process

Step One:

Request Report

We help you identify which reports you may need for your property. Once authorized AEL’s dedicated team of professionals will complete a high-quality, detailed report based on the applicable standards you require. 

Step Two:

Review Report

You are not alone! We take the time to review the reports and analyze together. We answer any questions or concerns you may have and provide creative solutions for your needs.

Step Three:

Identify next steps

Together, we will identify next steps to meet your desired outcome. 

Why AEL Environment?

Save Time & Money

We ensure that our robust reporting and recommendations not only meet your needs, but help you make decisions efficiently and effectively.

Get Educated

With AEL environment not only do you receive detailed assessments and reports but we make sure you understand them as well. Learn more.

Excellent Client Services

Our dedicated team will answer any of your questions, big or small. We are committed to providing customized solutions. Contact us.

Expert Engineers

With over 30 years of experience our expert engineers will be able to address any concern or issue on your property. Meet the team.

We help you manage the unknown

Every property has a history, we can help you interpret it using our detailed reports.

AEL environment is focused on creating tailored solutions based on your end goals for each property. Tell us the service you require, and our team of expert engineers will guide you through the process.

What Our Clients Are Saying
AEL
“As a real estate investor in Southern Ontario, I routinely rely on environmental services offered by AEL, including Phase 1 and Phase 2 procedures. The AEL team has consistently provided professional services that are timely, cost-effective, and in my opinion, the gold standard of the industry. I have used AEL on several occasions and plan to continue to do so as we focus on building our property portfolio.”
John Papanikolaou, Co-CEO
TenDream Properties

We help you manage the unknown

Every property has a history, we can help you interpret it using our detailed reports.

AEL environment is focused on creating tailored solutions based on your end goals for each property. Tell us the service you need, and our team of expert engineers will inform you.

Together, we can ensure you understand your reports to make informed decisions.

What Our Clients Are Saying
AEL
“As a real estate investor in Southern Ontario, I routinely rely on environmental services offered by AEL, including Phase 1 and Phase 2 procedures. The AEL team has consistently provided professional services that are timely, cost-effective, and in my opinion, the gold standard of the industry. I have used AEL on several occasions and plan to continue to do so as we focus on building our property portfolio.”
John Papanikolaou, Co-CEO
TenDream Properties
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