INTRODUCTION

AGAT Laboratories is a science company consisting of organic, inorganic and microbiology laboratories. This corporation encompasses twelve sectors which are the environmental, ultra trace toxicology, agriculture, oilsands, oil and gas chemistry, tribology, mining geochemistry, air quality monitoring, reservoir engineering, routine core, geology and petrology, and food testing. As a coop student, employed at AGAT Laboratories, I was assigned to work in the environmental department. This department involves tests that assist in maintaining good water and soil quality as requested by the clients. Chemical analysis of wastewater, groundwater, sediment sludge, soil and solid waste are also entailed. AGAT Laboratories has branches located across Canada and in Villa Hermosa, Tampico in Mexico and Ciudad del Carmen. It is one of the most diverse laboratories in Canada with 325 000 square feet of laboratory space and consisting of approximately twenty one main laboratories. The key to its success is the maintenance of cost effective and judicious analysis. The Environmental quarter consists of chemists, botanists, biologists, microbiologists, biochemists, occupational hygienists and environmental scientists to precisely analyze a vast range of samples. The analyses applied at the laboratory are based on contaminated sites testing, thorough soil analysis and drinking water standards.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES AND FUTURE GOALS

I was excited to begin working at AGAT Laboratories since the job of a lab analyst had always attracted me. I wanted to learn different types of experimentation to tests soil samples and understand the necessity of each step executed. I had an eagerness to learn to use devices such as the EC and ph probes, the total cyanide analyzer and the centrifuges. Learning all the different soil tests performed at the laboratory was relevant to me. Through this co-op term, I have been able to comprehend the value of the work performed in this laboratory. I will consider jobs such as this in the future since I have always found them fascinating. It is a reputable career which proves its worth environmentally. My future goals are to utilize all the skills and techniques acquired through this co-op term in future careers. Working at AGAT Laboratories has been a very knowledgeable and eye-opening experience.
TESTS PERFORMED AT THE INORGANIC SECTOR

In the environmental sector, I was allocated to work in the inorganic sub-division for soil analysis. Initially, I was assisting in tests for boron and chromium levels in dry and wet soil samples. A dry sample is a soil sample that has been placed in an oven to be dehydrated. The resulting sample will have a sandy or soft texture. The dry sample is used to test for boron. A wet sample is a sample that has not been dried. It consists of water and sometimes exhibits mud-like characteristics. This wet sample is used to test for chromium. During this period, I was eventually assigned to perform cyanide tests for wet soil samples as well. I also executed metal digestion testing for dry samples for a two-week period during my work term. Soon after, I aided in Electrical Conductivity (EC) and Ph testing for dry and wet samples for approximately a month. Ultimately, I was

given full authority over this work station and I performed EC and Ph soil tests for the remaining period of my term. I had gained vast knowledge and experience during my coop term. Testing soils was my major role. However, I acquired other skills such as filtration of water samples and aiding lab analysts in the usage of a technicon autoanalyzer. The technicon is an instrument in the laboratory used to test for cyanide levels. They consist of viles that are filled with the appropriated fluid to be analyzed. This instrument was used for soil and water samples that required cyanide testing as requested by the clients.
EDUCATION AND ADVANCEMENT

My education at Ryerson University have aided in understanding the phenomena behind instrumentation and analyses in the laboratory. Work in the laboratory has helped me to gain more confidence in performing soil tests. As a student, it is often difficult to accept high responsibility for results or data produced. However, taking charge of a work station has developed my leadership and interpersonal skills. I have become a stronger person, in the decisions I make. I am also not afraid to ask questions in order to comprehend challenging concepts. Taking responsibilities for my mistakes and learning from them has assisted in my learning process as a co-op student.
EXPERIMENTATION EXECUTED AT THE BORON/ CHROMIUM WORK STATION

As was stated above, initially I assisted in the analysis of boron and chromium in dry and wet soil samples. The first step in any soil analysis is finding the sample. The sample is located with the use of the work order number and the sample ID. For the analysis of boron, 2.5 grams of the dry sample is weighed into small boron test tubes.

Duplicate and spike samples are also included in the analysis. The tubes are then filled with 5mL of calcium chloride and placed in an orbital shaker for five minutes at 55rpm. Next, the samples are boiled in a pan for 30 minutes. Finally they are placed in a centrifuge at a speed of 3200mph for seven minutes. The centrifuge separates the liquid portion from the solid portion. The liquid layer is then used for the analysis of boron in the soil samples. For the analysis of chromium, 10 grams of the soil sample is weighed into plastic centrifuge tubes. There are also duplicate and spike samples that are included in the analysis. Next, 50mL monopotassium phosphate is added to the soil samples. The tubes are then capped and placed in a shaker for thirty minutes. They are then placed in a centrifuge for 15 minutes. The liquid layer is filtered and the analysis for chromium is carried out using a wavelength selector. The analysis for boron and chromium is not difficult. However, remembering the steps of the analysis is challenging. It is also important to weigh within + 0.02 grams of the sample. If this range is not maintained, changes in the ratio can cause variations in boron and chromium levels.
EXPERIMENTATION EXECUTED AT THE CYANIDE WORK STATION

Sample preparation for cyanide involved the use of wet soil samples. 5 grams of the soil samples are weighed in plastic centrifuge tubes. Next, 50mL of sodium hydroxide is added to the soil samples. The samples are then placed in a shaker for thirty minutes at 200rpm and later centrifuged for four minutes at 3000mph. The samples are then sent to a lab analyst for the analysis of cyanide. The analyst uses a Technicon Total Cyanide Analyzer for the study. If the cyanide levels are too high in a certain sample, the moisture content of the sample is required. This is performed as

follows. A small, foil tray is filled with approximately 2 grams of the sample and dried in an oven for approximately two hours at 105C. After drying, the sample is weighed again and these results are entered in a spreadsheet that calculates the moisture content of the soil sample.
EXPERIMENTATION EXECUTED AT THE METAL DIGESTION WORK STATION

Metal digestion is a procedure used to test for metals in a dry sample. In this analysis, 0.5 grams of the dry sample is weighed. Next, 5mL of distilled water, 0.5mL of hydrochloric acid and 4.5mL of nitric acid are added to the soil samples. The samples are then digested or cooked for two hours in a digiblock. Later, the samples are filled with 50mL of distilled water and capped. Finally, they are centrifuged for 5 minutes at approximately 2700mph and then sent to other lab analysts for testing. In this methodology, blanks, blank spikes, duplicates and reference samples are used.
EXPERIMENTATION EXECUTED AT THE EC/PH WORK STATION

For the duration of my co-op term, I was assigned to work at the EC/PH station. For the analysis of electrical conductivity in soil samples, 12.5 grams of the dry samples are weighed and 25mL of distilled water is added. The samples are capped and placed in an orbital shaker for thirty minutes. Next, they are centrifuged for twenty minutes at 3000mph. In general, work orders require SAR (Sodium Absorption Ration) testing, Anions testing. In this case, 15mL plastic centrifuge tubes are prepared for both tests. 5mL of the liquid layer is filtered for SAR and 4mL is filtered for anion analysis. The electrical conductivity is then recorded in a log book from the SAR tubes. An EC (MI2003) probe is calibrated and inserted in each tube to read the EC value of the liquid. If

the EC value is greater than one, the number is written on the tubes for both SAR and anions. This value affects the dilution factor applied for the analysis of SAR. Most values are less than one. EC values will also have to be recorded for any samples that require only analysis for anions. Next, a drop of nitric acid is added to the SAR tubes for preservation of the sample and then sent to a lab analyst. The analyst uses an instrument to detect SAR levels. The anion tubes are given to another lab analyst for testing of anions such as chloride, fluoride and nitrate. For the analysis of Ph in soil samples, 10 grams of the wet sample is weighed into 50mL plastic centrifuge tubes. Next, 20mL of calcium chloride is added to the samples. They are capped and then placed on the shaker for thirty minutes. Next, they are centrifuged for five minutes at 3000mph. A Ph (MIIL-3038) probe is calibrated and inserted in each sample to read the Ph values. The values are recorded in a log book.
REDOX TESTING AND SULPHATE ANALYSIS PERFORMED AT THE EC/PH WORK STATION

Along with the above experimentation, clients request for other types of analysis such as Redox (oxidation-reduction) testing and sulphate testing for Halifax samples. These require slightly different applications. In the case of Redox analysis, 20 grams of the dry soil sample is weighed into 50mL plastic centrifuge tubes. 40mL of distilled water is then added. The sample is then placed in a shaker for 30 minutes and centrifuged for 20 minutes at 3000mph. The Ph of this sample is read and recorded using the MIIL-3038 probe. The liquid layer of the soil sample is poured into a beaker and placed on a magnetic stirrer. A probe is inserted into the liquid which reads the redox values in millivolts. This value is recorded in a log book. For Halifax samples, that

require sulphate analysis, 2 grams of the dry sample is weighed into 50mL plastic centrifuge tubes and 20mL of distilled water is added. The sample is placed in a shaker for thirty minutes and centrifuged for twenty minutes. 4mL of the sample is filtered and sent to a lab analyst for sulphate testing. In the above experimentation, duplicates are applied for EC and Ph analyses. After all the tests are complete and the results are obtained, they are photocopied and reported. Sometimes, the results obtained are not satisfactory and clients request for the procedure to be repeated until the data are acceptable. Duplicates of the sample need to be made since comparison can result in more accurate data. Challenges encountered are when there are not enough samples for all soil tests to be done. In such a situation, it is important that all analysts communicate and come to a compromise of how much sample, each should acquire, maintaining the compulsory ratio and acceptable ranges.
CHALLENGES ENCOUNTERED

During an analysis, the EC/PH tests had to be performed on a gel-type sample. This resulted in major difficulties since it was impossible to centrifuge the sample. When placed in the shaker, it would form into a jelly substance. Hence, when centrifuged, only about 1mL of liquid layer was acquired. The problem was brought to the manager and he suggested that the entire sample be transferred to a bottle and be placed in a shaker. Then the sample was to be centrifuged. From this, the liquid layer of the sample was acquired and centrifuged. This procedure took place many times. It took a lot of time and energy however only a small portion of liquid was acquired for the analyses. A

note was written to the clients stating the difficulties and challenges that arose during the analysis of this sample. This was the major challenge that was brought forth during my work term. I was required to make reasonable decisions by asking questions and experimenting with different methods in order to obtain accurate data.
INTERPERSONAL SKILLS

Communication between lab analysts was a necessity. At the start of every soil test, the soil samples need to be weighed. If there is not sufficient sample available, all the lab analysts will have to compromise and reduce the amount of sample they collect for their analyses. At the beginning of my co-op term, I was not aware that each soil test was performed using the same samples. On one occasion, I collected the required amount of soil sample to perform the EC/PH analysis. I had already leached my samples and I was progressing with my experiment. One of the lab analysts had stated that there was not an adequate amount of sample for her to use in her analysis. She confronted me about this since I had acquired most of the sample with much less remaining. I had taken the matter to my manager and he had explained to me that when there is not enough of a soil sample for all the analysts, each of us should reduce the amount we acquire for analysis. He also requested for more sample to be sent to the lab from the client. The other lab analysts were then able to go forth with their analysis, once the soil sample had been received.

AUTONOMOUS WORK AT THE LABORATORY

Moreover, there was a situation that occurred during my analysis, which required me to work independently in solving the matter. For sulphate samples that come from Halifax, the electrical conductivity analysis needs to be performed with 2 grams of a dry sample and 20mL of distilled water. During one experiment, I had accidentally weighed 5 grams of the sample without realizing that it was a Halifax sample. In order to solve this problem, I added 50mL of distilled water to the sample. I knew that when performing any soil tests, the ratio always has to be maintained. For the EC/PH tests, a ratio of 2:1 needs to be maintained. In doing so, I had managed to maintain the ratio and continue the analysis with no errors. SKILLS ACQUIRED This co-op term has assisted me in developing my skills. I have developed better organizational skills. Working at AGAT Laboratories, I had to organize all my work orders based on their due dates. I always tried my best to stay at least two days ahead on my work. I have also learned to manage my time more wisely without delaying the submission of my results. Most of all, I learnt to communicate and listen more efficiently with my colleagues based on matters related to soil testing. I have learned many methods of soil testing and this has helped me to gain lots of laboratory experience. Working with many different types of people has helped me to adjust and cooperate with them in considering their concerns. I have developed more confidence as well as a sense of responsibility in the work that I embarked on. Accepting my mistakes and learning from them has been the primary source of my accomplishments at AGAT Laboratories.

Patience is relevant in any aspect of a career. Working at the laboratory has assisted me in becoming a more patient person. Instead of rushing my analysis, I worked at a steady pace with minimal errors, producing acceptable results. I have developed various useful skills and techniques that I will carry over to every role I accept.
RELEVANCE OF THE COURSES TAKEN AT RYERSON UNIVERSITY

The analysis carried out in the laboratory was comprehendible due to courses taken at Ryerson University. Organic Chemistry helped me to understand the concept of Redox when recording its value for the soil samples. General Chemistry in first year helped me to remember the names of the chemical elements in the periodic table as well as names of compounds, such as calcium chloride and monopotassium phosphate. I was able to distinguish between anions and cations when performing soil analyses. Instrumental Methods of Analysis, a course taken in second year, assisted in understanding different types of equipment used to perform tests, such as the technicon total cyanide analyzer, wavelength selector and IR (Infrared Instrumentation). A course, Heat Transfer was also taken in second year, introduced concepts of leaching and extraction. These concepts were used in the soil analysis, in order to extract the minerals out of the soil and test for the electrical conductivity and Ph. For the dry sample, the liquid used for leaching was distilled water. Whereas, for the wet sample, the liquid used for leaching was calcium chloride. Currently, in third year, Mass Transfer is introduced. This course also edifies concepts of leaching and extraction. In general, the courses taken throughout university help to understand the major underlying concepts of the analyses and instrumentation utilized in the laboratory. Instead of

blindly performing tests, students have the capability to comprehend them with the knowledge acquired.

LEARNING PROCESS AND CLEANLINESS OF A WORK STATION

Asking questions and determining the RTD (relative percent difference) of these experiments, resulted in more accurate and precise data. Performing quality control every morning for all the devices used, also assist in accurate data. If the results produced by the equipment are not within a specified range, there is a possibility that the device is faulty or that it needs to be calibrated. Calibration ensures that the devices and equipment employed are accurate. Cleanliness of a work station is important upon completion of an analysis. This guarantees that samples tested on the work station will not be contaminated due to other soil residue and dust on the table. Many times, clients visit the laboratory to learn about procedures used to carry out an analysis. A clean work station is inviting and creates a better impression of the laboratory and its methods.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF A BETTER LABORATORY

In any company, it is important that the suggestions of students be taken into concern as well. It is suggested that AGAT laboratories acquire more seating for students in the laboratory. It is tiresome to stand for eight hours a day, and with less chairs, it is impossible to find seats. Furthermore, it would be better if there are more lab coats available. Since we were working with soil, our lab coats became unclean within a

week. With more sizes and more lab coats, students will be able to work with more comfort.
CONCLUSION

In conclusion, as a co-op student, one desires a job with better pay and experience. However, it is important to realize that experience is wealth. With experience, one can move up in a company. Soc as a student, I believe that developing good skills and techniques is crucial to success. By asking questions and accepting mistakes, one will learn to become a better employee. Overall, AGAT Laboratories is a great place to acquire different skills that will assist in the professional growth of a student. I strongly recommend AGAT Laboratories for any student seeking jobs as it will be a great learning experience.