Control Sample Failure in an ICP-OES Measurement

In an ICP-OES measurement, if the control sample of the analysis fails, what is the remedial action?

The failure of a control sample would trigger a reanalysis of the control - additional failure should/will trigger an investigation where the test in question is not performed until a cause for the failure is found. There are two sets of control limits and going outside the first set is expected about 5% of the time - this is why a retest should show conformity and no real problem. However, if the test goes outside the outer limits (happens natural only 1% of time) then this should automatically trigger an investigation.

Serving you in chemistry,

Paul R. Gaines, Ph.D.
CEO of Inorganic Ventures & Fellow Chemist

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