Inorganic Chemistry studies inorganic elements in the environment, including minerals and metals.

The Ankeny Inorganic Chemistry section performs tests that detect inorganic elements in air, groundwater, drinking water, surface water, soil, wastewater and sludge. Samples from public and private water systems are analyzed for levels of nitrate, nitrite, total coliform and E.coli bacteria. Tests determine the presence of arsenic, cadmium, mercury, lead and many other metals in the environment. Lead testing is conducted on blood specimens from children and adults throughout the state, as well as dust, paint, soil, pottery and food products to help identify sources of lead exposure.

The Inorganic Chemistry section tests groundwater, surface water and wastewater for biochemical oxygen demand. This section provides support for the Ankeny laboratory for processing samples with short holding times (within 48 hours of collection). This includes determining the presence and levels of orthophosphate, pH, nitrite, oil and grease in specimens.