文摘
Chemical characterization of natural mineral water is performed at Instituto Superior Técnico (IST) since its creation in 1911. Charles Lepierre (1911-1937) and Herculano de Carvalho (1927-1969) analysed the vast majority of Portuguese natural mineral waters. In addition, in Coimbra, Charles Lepierre developed bacteriological analysis and radioactivity determinations, complementing chemical characterization. The Laboratório de Análises of IST (LAIST) has maintained a leadership role on the characterization of Portuguese natural mineral waters, being pioneer in the development and application of new technologies while providing fast responses to the requirements of new legislations.