Certified reference materials for inorganic and organic contaminants in environmental matrices |
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Authors: | Franz Ulberth |
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Institution: | (1) European Commission, DG Joint Research Centre, Institute for Reference Materials and Measurements, Retieseweg 111, 2440 Geel, Belgium |
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Abstract: | Chemical measurements often constitute the basis for informed decision-making at different levels in society; sound decision-making
is possible only if the quality of the data used is uncompromised. To guarantee the reliability and comparability of analytical
data an intricate system of quality-assurance measures has to be put into effect in a laboratory. Reference materials and,
in particular, certified reference materials (CRMs) are essential for achieving traceability and comparability of measurement
results between laboratories and over time. As in any other domain of analytical chemistry, techniques used to monitor the
levels and fate of contaminants in the environment must be calibrated using appropriate calibration materials, and the methods
must be properly validated using fit-for-purpose matrix-matched CRMs, to ensure confidence in the data produced. A sufficiently
large number of matrix CRMs are available for analysis of most elements, and the group of chemicals known as persistent organic
pollutants, in environmental compartments and biota. The wide variety of analyte/level/matrix/matrix property combinations
available from several suppliers enables analysts to select CRMs which sufficiently match the properties of the samples they
analyse routinely. Materials value-assigned for the so-called emerging pollutants are scarce at the moment, though an objective
of current development programmes of CRM suppliers is to overcome this problem. |
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Keywords: | Certified reference materials CRM Environmental chemistry Quality assurance Quality control Uncertainty Traceability |
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