Analytical methods manual for the Mineral Resource Surveys Program, U.S. Geological Survey

Abstract

The written analytical method is to reflect the procedure actually being used in the laboratory. Routine methods are written in the following standard format: TITLE contains the name(s) of the analyte and the measurement method PRINCIPLE brief discussion of the scientific basis INTERFERENCE sample matrices, or element concentrations, which may cause chemical, physical, or spectral interferences SCOPE the range of analyte concentration and applicable sample matrices for which the method is useful, and an estimate of time required for analysis APPARATUS instruments and special equipment required REAGENTS chemical name, chemical symbol, purity, method of preparation, and shelf life if stability is a problem SAFETY PRECAUTIONS hazards peculiar to the method of analysis and handling procedures PROCEDURE describes a strict time sequence and the critical steps in the analysis CALCULATION equation(s) necessary to calculate the results of the analysis ASSIGNMENT OF UNCERTAINTY statistical summary table of the historical analytical results for selected reference materials, duplicate samples, and method blank. For a detailed discussion please refer to the Analytical Performance Summary section.