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Analytical Shielding with CRM: Best Practices for Laboratories and Clients

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In the world of analytical quality assurance, Certified Reference Materials (CRMs) are much more than standards: they are strategic tools for safeguarding processes, validating results, and ensuring traceability. At FobosLab, we promote their use as part of a rigorous technical culture, aligned with the recommendations of Geostats Australia, a leader in the production of CRMs for mining and geochemical laboratories.

Intelligent CRM Insertion in the Sample Sequence

For laboratory customers, the recommendation is clear: insert CRMs blindly into the normal sample flow. This is especially relevant in cases of thick targets, dosed samples, or coarse-grained CRMs. When this is not feasible, it is suggested to deliver pre-numbered sets (minimum three materials) and instruct their uniform distribution per batch.

Laboratories, for their part, tend to purchase CRM in bulk, which allows for its direct incorporation at the weighing stage. This practice facilitates traceability and strengthens internal control.

Technical Evaluation: Beyond Target Value

Each result obtained must be evaluated using control charts, comparing it with the mean value of the CRM and its control limits. Each certificate includes:

  • Average value (target)
  • Standard deviation (expected variability)
  • Number of analyses (statistical robustness)
  • 95% confidence interval (quality of the certification process)

It is recommended to use three standard deviations as control limits for monitoring analyses. This allows significant deviations to be detected and corrective decisions to be made in a timely manner.

Why Shield with CRM

The correct use of CRM not only validates results: it protects institutional integrity, strengthens technical governance, and allows for evidence-based responses to audits, complaints, or deviations. At FobosLab, we understand that analytical shielding is not a luxury, but a shared responsibility between clients and laboratories.

Source consulted: https://www.geostats.com.au/

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