In analytical chemistry, the term sample preparation refers to the manner in which a sample is treated before analysis. Sample preparation is a critical step in many analytical methods as often analytical methods do not work on the analyte in its standard form. This means that sample preparation must be carried out to ensure the analyte is in the optimum state for the technique.
Sample preparation can involve extraction, reaction, dissolution, and pulverizing as well as a range of other methods. Treatment is carried out using reference materials to prepare the sample into a form that is ready to be analyzed.
Reference materials are a critical element of sample preparation as they provide a benchmark to measure samples against. This ensures they meet the correct specifications.
What are Reference Materials
Reference materials are a key element of sample preparation for chemical analysis. Ensuring the correct reference materials are selected is an important aspect of process design and attaining high standards of quality management.
Reference materials must be supplied by an accredited reference material producer. The standards for reference materials are slightly less exact than certified reference materials however they are substantially easier to produce.
Reference materials are fully compliant with ISO requirements, so for sample preparation that does not require as high accuracy, they are a great cost-effective resource.
The Importance of Reference Materials for Sample Preparation
In sample preparation, reference materials are used for quantification and verification. They are used as a benchmark material with known properties, allowing the prepared sample to meet the standard required. Using reference materials leads to more accurate measurements of concentration leading to more accurate chemical analysis overall.
Selecting reference materials that are appropriate for your sample preparation can be overwhelming with a vast amount of choice. These choices include opting for single or multi-element standards and selecting the correct concentrations as a reference for your sample preparation.
Reference materials are an excellent tool for quality control and accuracy in sample preparation. However, sometimes it can be challenging to find reference materials to meet your exact specifications for sample preparation. This is why it can be beneficial to have custom reference materials developed for you, tailor-made to your procedure, and ensuring reliable and repeatable results.
With all these variables it is important to get advice, speaking to a trusted manufacturer can be the first step. Inorganic Ventures has been produced reference materials for over thirty years, leading to high levels of expertise in the area.