Intercomparison of the multi-element analytical methods TXRF, NAA and ICP with regard to trace element determinations in environmental samples

The paper gives an intercomparison of total reflection X-ray fluorescence analysis, instrumental neutron activation analysis both with thermal and 14 MeV neutrons, and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy on the basis of various extensive environmental research and monitoring programmes. The data originate from parallel analyses performed to control precision and accuracy during the studies in addition to interlaboratory tests. Quite different matrices are considered: particulate matter suspended in waters, filtrates of river water, sediment, mussel tissue (mytilus edulis), air dust and annual rings of spruce-wood. The data presented give an insight into the reliability of analytical results that is achieved in routine programmes in which large numbers of samples have to be handled. It is not the purpose of this paper to explore the optimum precision, accuracy or detection limit attainable in well-aimed analyses. Finally, data are reported on various interlaboratory tests (Intercomparisons: Water W-3/1, Soil-7, Sediment SD-N-1/2, Mussel tissue Ma-M-2/TM). (orig.)