ICP Quality Issues

Accuracy

The accuracy of a certified reference material (CRM) standard is dependent upon:

• The method(s) used for certification (Method Validation).
• Proper preparation of the elemental standard (a QC sample or second source sample should be analyzed against the single or multi-element blend).
• Identification and expression of all Random and Fixed Errors. See Understanding Error Budgets for definitions. (Note that uncertainty calculations will be discussed in part 3 of this series).
• Chemical and physical stability — Container Transpiration plays an important role in chemical stability. See Stability of Elements at ppb Concentration Levels for detailed information on physical stability.
• Packaging and storage — Container Material Properties are important to consider.
• Absence of blunders (training, written procedures, detailed records, internal audits, etc.). Having a good quality system in place helps to prevent laboratory blunders. See ISO Guide 34, 17025, and 9001 Explained to learn more about out which International Organization of Standardization (ISO) standards are most important for trace analyses.

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