QA Course Total
QA Course Total
QA Course Total
Quality Control
A series of
analytical
measurements used
to assess the
quality of the
analytical data
(The tools)
Measured Value
The result of an
individuals
measurement of a
quantifiable
property
Precision
How well a
measurement
agrees with an
accepted value
Systematic vs.
Random Errors
Systematic Error
Avoidable error due
to controllable
variables in a
measurement.
Random Errors
Unavoidable errors
that are always
present in any
measurement.
Impossible to
eliminate
Calibration Curves
Graphical representation of the
relationship between:
The concentration of the analyte
and
The analytical signal
500
400
y = 9.3005x + 4.3313
300
2
200
R = 0.9989
100
0
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
Continuing Calibration
Verification
Many methods dont require that
daily calibration curves are
prepared
A calibration verification is
analyzed with each batch of samples
Sample Batch
10 - 20 samples (method defined)
or less
Same matrix
Same sample prep and analysis
Contains a full set of
QC samples
Internal Standards
A compound chemically similar to the
analyte
Not expected to be present in the sample
Cannot interfere in the analysis
Added to the calibration standards and
to the samples in identical amounts.
Internal Standards
Refines the calibration process
Analytical signals for calibration
standards are compared to those for
internal standards
Eliminates differences in random and
systematic errors between samples and
standards
Performance Testing
Blind samples submitted to
laboratories
?
?
Instrument Blank
A clean sample (e.g., distilled water)
processed through the instrumental
steps of the measurement process; used
to determine instrument
contamination.
Trip Blanks
Prepared in the lab, taken to the field
Not opened
Returned to the lab
Not always required in EPA methods
Recovery Studies
Matrix Spikes
Laboratory Control Samples
Surrogates .
Matrix Spikes
Sample spiked with a known
amount of analyte
Subjected to all sample prep and
analytical procedures
Determines the effect of the matrix
on analyte recovery
Normally one per batch
Surrogates
Similar to an internal standard
Added to all analytical samples, and to
all QC samples to monitor method
performance, usually during sample prep
Methods often have specific surrogate
recovery criteria
Most common in Organic methods
New Jersey
Quantitation Limits
(NJQLs)
The minimum concentration of an
analyte that can be quantified with
statistical confidence
5 x MDL, for the NJ Lab
Certification Program