XRF Newsletter, No. 25, September 2013

One of the main missions of any analytical laboratory is the provision of reliable results. Many X-ray fluorescence laboratories in the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Member States (MSs) carry out research aimed at improving the performance and extending the applicability of various X-ray based techniques. The IAEA assists its MSs Laboratories to maintain their readiness by producing reference materials, by developing standardized analytical methods and by conducting interlaboratory comparisons and proficiency tests as tools for quality control. To achieve this aim and ensure a reliable worldwide, rapid and consistent response, the IAEA Nuclear Science and Instrumentation Laboratory (NSIL) organizes proficiency tests annually for X-ray spectrometry laboratories. The main objective of these tests is to enhance the capability of interested MSs in effective utilization of nuclear spectrometry and analytical services in industry, human health, agriculture, and in monitoring and evaluation of environmental pollution. Indeed, proficiency tests are designed to identify analytical problems, to support IAEA MSs laboratories to improve the quality of their analytical results, to maintain their accreditation and to provide a regular forum for discussion and technology transfer in this area. The type of samples and the concentration levels of the analytes are designed and chosen in a way to better enable identification of potential analytical problems. Since 2001, the NSIL has organized nine proficiency test exercises (PTXRFIAEA)