PAH (POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC HYDROCARBONS)

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are organic, carbon-based compounds. There are several hundred different types and many of these compounds are considered carcinogenic. PAHs are produced during the thermal decomposition of raw materials that contain carbon, such as coal and oil. Gas works, coking plants and similar industrial facilities are often contaminated as a result. With a professional decontamination of these facilities or parts thereof, we create even safer working environments.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are also found in many refinery products, such as tar for example. These contaminated products are used for the construction of roads, among other things. Tar, in particular, was used for the insulation of roofs and the impregnation of wood and metal. In the past, it was standard practice to lay interior wooden flooring using adhesives containing PAHs. Just like many other harmful substances, PAHs are often closely combined with other materials. Identification and decontamination thus calls for the professional services of a company like Prometimpex.

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PCB (POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS)

Polychlorinated biphenyls are organic chlorine compounds that can readily penetrate skin. They are chemically similar to the better known dioxins, while just as poisonous and carcinogenic. Their chronic toxicity poses the greatest danger as PCBs are very rarely broken down naturally.
Chemically, the compounds are extremely strong. They are flame resistant and do not conduct any electric currents. These properties have seen PCBs used in capacitors, however also for joint sealing in concrete construction. This harmful substance is very often found in the cement-slab high-rises that appeared in the second half of the 20th century. Various coatings such as paints and varnishes, especially flame retardants, insulations and adhesives, also contain polychlorinated biphenyl components.
Prometimpex is the professional partner you need to call. Not only do we organise the legally required registration of the PCB discovery, but we also arrange for its disposal in one of the few hazardous waste incinerators, which guarantees a complete destruction of the extremely hazardous chlorine compounds.
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AMF (ARTIFICIAL MINERAL FIBRES)

Artificial mineral fibres are also generally recognised as glass wool, rock wool and mineral wool. The fibres have properties that are in part similar to the naturally occurring asbestos fibres. Accordingly, AMFs are often found in fire-protection constructions. They are also used for the thermal insulation, low-temperature insulation and sound insulation of roofs, ceilings, walls, as well as for the insulation of cables. The material mostly comes in the form of mats or customised forms, and rarely as loose filling.
Not all AMFs present a risk. The respirable fibre types which can cause cancer were produced up until the start of the 2000s. Whether or not artificial mineral fibres present a risk depends on the length and strength of the fibre, as well as its biodegradability. A scanning electron microscope analysis is required to identify harmful fibre types.
There is only a very low risk once the fibres are professionally manufactured, for example behind film for attic insulation. The risk is generally for those working in construction. Prometimpex is here to carry out the analysis, take care of decontamination and disposal, as well as organise the necessary proof of proper waste management.

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ORGANIC POLLUTANTS

Pollutants are not just limited to industrially manufactured chemical substances. Organic pollutants are often also found in buildings and properties, in the form of mould or bird droppings. This matter not only poses a risk to the basic structure of the building but also to people and the environment.
Excretions from pigeons, for example, contain various pathogens and parasites, such as salmonella, cryptococcosis and chlamydia, which can trigger pneumonia or meningitis if inhaled. Mildew grows on damp,
organic building materials and substances. The spores present a minor risk to healthy people, yet they can also trigger infectious diseases.
Organic pollutants are generally easily identified by non-experts. However, in cases of large-scale pollution, removal and disposal belongs in the hands of professionals like Prometimpex.

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