Berg, Albert

Diploma Thesis:
2109

Topic:
Methods for on-site-analysis of pollutants in buildings

Editor:
Albert Berg

University Professor Responsible:
Univ.-Prof. Dr.-Ing. Dipl.-Wirt.-Ing. Jens Otto

Supervisor:
University Supervisor: Dr.-Ing. Jan Kortmann

Editing Period:
11.05.2026 until 11.09.2026

Abstract: 
This study examines methods for on-site analysis of hazardous substances in existing buildings. The starting point is the growing importance of renovation, repurposing, and demolition, in which building materials containing hazardous substances must be identified, contained, and documented at an early stage. The focus is on handheld analytical methods and their suitability for detecting selected groups of hazardous substances, such as asbestos, man-made mineral fibers, PCBs, heavy metals, and PAHs. The methods are evaluated in terms of their applicability in a construction site environment, their reliability, limitations, and legal and regulatory applicability. The study shows that on-site methods do not replace laboratory analysis but do enable early detection and can thus contribute to greater planning and bidding certainty in the renovation of existing buildings. In addition, the potential of AI, automated evaluation, robotics, and BIM is examined. In this way, the study combines technical analytical methods with issues of occupational safety, demolition planning, and the digital reuse of information on hazardous substances.