COMPARISON BETWEEN THE PARAMETERS OF THROUGHFALL AND BULK DEPOSITION MEASURED IN TWO LABORATORIES USING THE SAME METHODS

Abstract

Among the main concerns of the researchers is the comparability of the analysis methods, in order to highlight possible errors. Several statistical approaches and graphical tools are available to investigate sources of analytical error and for decision-making. In this article, we present an operative protocol for the comparison of the precision for two laboratories with the same quantitative analytical methods. This paper describes the importance of achieving sequential stages, including experimental design, familiarization with the method of optimal research analysis, quality evaluation, selection of sample, definition of acceptability criteria. Sample measurement, data analysis and evaluation, final decision and reporting are also discussed and exemplified. The reason for performing a comparison experiment is to estimate the type and magnitude of systematic error between two laboratories with the same method and to judge if the two laboratories are identical within the inherent imprecision methods or within preset analytical quality specifications. Finally, the purpose was to check if same ranges of concentrations and fluxes of pollutants are obtained using the same methods of analysis, but in two different labs.