Estimation of uncert ainity of the ICP AES determination of selected metals in inland waters

Abstract

Determination of basic metrological characteristics and estimation of the combined uncertainty and expanded uncertainty of the results of the ICP AES determination of ten metals (Zn, Cr, Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb, Fe, Mn, Mg and Ca) commonly present in inland waters were performed. Special attention was given to the assessment, which uncertainty components play a dominant role in the overall determination process (from sampling up to the presentation of results), and particularly, in the ICP AES calibration and measurement. The largest contribution to the combined uncertainty of the final analytical result in all ten analytical determinations was found from the sampling procedure.