Reference materials play an important role in analytical chemistry, where they are used by analysts for a variety of purposes, including: checking and calibrating instruments; validating methods and estimating the uncertainty of analytical measurements; checking laboratory and analyst performance; and internal quality control. This book provides guidance and information for the users of certified reference materials (CRMs), explaining how they can best be used to achieve valid analytical measurements and improve quality in the analytical laboratory. General information on CRMs and how they are produced sets the scene for readers. The statistics relating to CRM use are then explained in an easy-to-understand manner, and this is followed by sections covering the main uses of CRMs. Detailed worked examples are used throughout. Structured and comprehensive in coverage, this book will be welcomed by all users of certified reference materials.

The variety of complex terms used in the Quality Assurance aspect of analytical measurement can be the cause of considerable confusion. This unique handbook explains the most widely-used terminology in language that is readily understood, and attempts to place each term in context. Concepts are described in a way that is useful to all practitioners, particularly those concerned with quality assurance, validation and reliability of analytical measurements. Explanations of terms are always in line with the ""official definition,"" often developed by international committees. Adopting a thematic approach, Analytical Measurement Terminology is divided into six main parts. The first four parts address the logical progression of an analytical measurement, from obtaining a sample, through method and materials, to reporting the result. The two remaining parts include a variety of terms encountered in quality systems and documentation, along with definitions of ""mathematical"" terms likely to be encountered by the analyst in their everyday work. The index provides easy access to both the definitions and the accompanying examples. With its straightforward descriptions and many examples, this handbook, produced as part of the VAM (Valid Analytical Measurement) programme, will provide valuable assistance for a wide variety of new and experienced practitioners, as well as for teachers and lecturers.

In spite of the wide variety and complexity of biological materials, nucleic acids are ubiquitous. DNA is becoming the bioanalyte of choice due to the vast amount of information embedded in its sequence, its robust chemical nature and the range of highly sensitive analytical techniques that have been developed. The results of such analyses can have an important impact on our society both commercially and in terms of the quality of life. Absolute confidence in the data generated is therefore of the utmost importance. This book, produced by LGC as part of the VAM (Valid Analytical Measurement) Programme, introduces the issues of validation and quality to the bioanalytical community, specifically addressing DNA-based analyses. It aims to raise awareness of the factors that can influence the validity of DNA analysis and the production of quality data. Emphasis is placed on VAM principles, as well as additional challenges that are associated with the analysis of real samples, for example, complex food matrices or forensic samples that have been subjected to environmental insult. Information is collated from a variety of sources including literature, discussions and LGC research, and offers constructive advice where possible.

This book deals exclusively and comprehensively with the role of proficiency testing in the quality assurance of analytical data. It covers in detail proficiency testing schemes from the perspectives of scheme organisers, participant laboratories and the ultimate end-users of analytical data. A wide variety of topics are addressed including the organisation, effectiveness, applicability, and the costs and benefits of proficiency testing. Procedures for the evaluation and interpretation of laboratory proficiency, and the relation of proficiency testing to other quality assurance measures are also discussed. Proficiency Testing in Analytical Chemistry is an important addition to the literature on proficiency testing and is essential reading for practising analytical chemists and all organisations and individuals with an interest in the quality of analytical data.

Trace Analysis is a highly practical book which deals with the science rather than the paperwork of quality assurance systems. Produced as part of the UK Valid Analytical Measurement (VAM) initiative, it provides the analyst with a systematic approach across the broad spectrum of trace analysis, offering practical advice and guidance on methodology and techniques. The book is structured to take the analyst step-by-step through the stages of any trace analysis. The approach is general, being broken down only into types of analyte. Additional chapters explain the application of groups of techniques to each analyte type. Each section contains references to published material which will allow the analyst to obtain further information on specific topics. Throughout the book, the analyst is reminded of pitfalls which lead to unreliable results. This new book therefore offers invaluable advice to analysts in all areas and at all levels, providing practical 'expert' advice on methodology. It will prove indispensable as a single, comprehensive bench guide for analysts in university, college and industrial laboratories.

Sampling is the first and arguably most important step in the analytical process. Obtaining representative and reliable samples of any bulk material being analysed is of the utmost importance. This book brings together the broader principles of sampling applicable to a wide variety of situations. Prepared under the Department of Trade and Industry's Valid Analytical Measurement (VAM) Initiative, it covers solid, liquid and gas samples, with examples of some of the equipment used. General Principles of Good Sampling Practice is based on an intensive literature survey covering a wide range of materials, offers guidance on particle size reduction of solids, and looks at requirements for suitable containers and storage prior to analysis. The book gives particular emphasis to the preparation of sampling plans. Checklists ensure that coverage is comprehensive. In addition, various safety aspects are considered, appendices give definitions of sampling terminology, and some theory is addressed. General Principles of Good Sampling Practice has come as a welcome reference guide for researchers and professionals who need to access the important information on how to sample. Before, information has been scattered across the literature. Now, anyone with interests or responsibilities in sampling has at hand the aid of this thorough and reliable guide.

Analytical chemists must use a range of statistical tools in their treatment of experimental data to obtain reliable results. Practical Statistics for the Analytical Scientist is a manual designed to help them negotiate the daunting specialist terminology and symbols. Prepared in conjunction with the Department of Trade and Industry's Valid Analytical Measurement (VAM) programme, this volume covers the basic statistics needed in the laboratory. It describes the statistical procedures that are most likely to be required including summary and descriptive statistics, calibration, outlier testing, analysis of variance and basic quality control procedures. To improve understanding, many examples provide the user with material for consolidation and practice. The fully worked answers are given both to check the correct application of the procedures and to provide a template for future problems. Practical Statistics for the Analytical Scientist will be welcomed by practising analytical chemists as an important reference for day to day statistics in analytical chemistry.

The isotope dilution mass spectrometry (IDMS) technique is well known and widely reported in the literature. However, its application can present considerable difficulties with regard to obtaining reliable results. Produced jointly by the Royal Society of Chemistry's Analytical Methods Committee and the Valid Analytical Measurement (VAM) programme, the aim of this book is to provide a simplified yet robust methodology, together with adequate guidance, to enable laboratories wishing to use the technique to obtain reliable data. The methodologies, for inorganic and organic mass spectrometry, which use exact and approximate matching, are illustrated with worked examples and clear diagrammatic representations. A comprehensive glossary of terms, references to key publications and an extensive IDMS bibliography are also provided. Clear and comprehensive in coverage, Guidelines for Achieving High Accuracy in Isotope Dilution Mass Spectrometry (IDMS) will provide valuable assistance to a wide variety of analytical chemists interested in applying the IDMS technique to their own measurement applications.