Sampling and Sample Preparation

Sampling aims to select a small subset of a larger population that accurately reflects the characteristics and composition of the entire population.

Grab sampling involves collecting a single sample from a specific location or time point.

Homogenization ensures that the sample is uniform in composition and that any sub-samples taken will be representative of the entire sample.

Filtration is a physical separation technique that separates solid particles from a fluid by passing the mixture through a filter.

Solvent extraction involves the selective transfer of compounds from one phase to another based on their solubility in different solvents.

Oven drying is a widely used method for removing moisture from solid samples by heating them in an oven at a controlled temperature.

Acid digestion is a technique used to dissolve metal ions from solid samples by treating them with strong acids, often in combination with heat.

Filtration is often used to remove solid particles or impurities from liquid samples before analysis.

Derivatization involves chemically modifying compounds to convert them into derivatives that possess desirable properties for analysis.

Solid-liquid extraction involves contacting a solid sample with a suitable solvent to dissolve and extract the analytes of interest.

Matrix matching involves preparing calibration standards and samples in a matrix that is similar to the sample matrix to minimize the effects of matrix components on the analytical results.

Evaporation involves removing the solvent from a liquid sample to concentrate the analytes.

Internal standards are added to samples before analysis to correct for variations in sample preparation and instrument performance.

Recrystallization involves dissolving a solid sample in a suitable solvent, filtering the solution to remove impurities, and then crystallizing the purified compound from the solution.

QC samples are used to assess the accuracy and precision of analytical methods by analyzing samples with known concentrations of analytes.