"Multi-Technique Problem Solving in an Industrial
Environment"
Shell, Thornton Laboratories, Chester-
Wednesday 6th of January 1999
Parallel Workshop Sessions
"Workshop on Sample Handling, Development of
an ISO Standard"
Leader:- D E Sykes
Raporteur:- D D Hall
DES introduced the subject by reviewing the progress of ASTM E1078
within the ISO TC 201 SC2 and ASTM E42 committees since the first meeting of the ISO TC
201 committee in 1993.
It was generally agreed that existing ASTM standards E1078 and E1829
are not suitable for practicing analysts and sample suppliers in their current form.
Standards are useful and relevant for sample handling and documents are
needed. Some laboratories already had written procedures, a new document prepared by
members of the Surface Analysis Forum would be useful for labs seeking accreditation in the
future.
The need for two documents - one for the sample supplier and one for
the analyst - was recognised.
It was agreed to concentrate on the document for the sample supplier in
first instance.
Two main areas for standards:
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suitable packaging that won't affect the analytical data
(vital that the type of analysis required is known - otherwise treat as a SSIMS sample)
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and preparing sample to a suitable size for transport.
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The following areas were discussed:
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Suggested containers - Proprietary containers, glass phials
with or without glass beads, plastic bags, Al foil, face-to-face contact etc. Packages
must be validated - how to do this in a timely manner.
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Some sort of decision tree would be useful - 20 questions
that the analyst can ask before sample sent.
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Sample handling - obvious to analysts but not necessarily to
sample providers.
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Clean tools (what is clean? how to clean), minimize
handling, clean hands, dry cutting - snips saws etc.
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Sample marking - none preferred otherwise scratching and
photos. Black felt tip pens were thought to be a bad idea on some samples but not on
others
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It was decided to form a working party of about six people to draft a
suitable standard and to circulate this draft at the next meeting. Anyone interested in
participating to contact DES (d.e.sykes@lsaltd.co.uk)
who would lead the activity and prepare an Aunt Sally document.
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