fresh water  sediment quality assurance

Sediment Exchange for Tests on Organic Contaminants - SETOC

Proficiency tests

Participation is open to all laboratories.


Test programme Fresh Water Sediment
Number of rounds 4 per year
Number of samples 4 per round
Sample size 100 g
Origin Natural source

General information

  • The sample types/matrices are chosen to represent the materials which you normally analyse. There is no spiking or use of artificial samples.
  • The samples are obtained from river beds, lake bottoms and harbours.
  • Sediments are dried and milled and sieved to < 0.5 mm.
  • The homogeneity of each batch of samples is tested on a selection of parameters.
  • The dried sediment samples have been are stable over a number of years when stored at room temperature.
  • You analyze the samples according to your own procedures and for those elements and parameters you are interested in. ·Your results are processed at WEPAL-QUASIMEME and published every three months under confidential code names.
  • The reports contain all data, statistical evaluation including Z-score plots and method information about the method used.
  • Your reports are available within three weeks after the submission deadline
  • New determinands can be added on request.

Determinands and analysis

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons

Determinand group

  • Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons

Click here for more detailed information about the determinands and the scope of accreditation.

Halogenated Organics

Determinand group

  • Polychlorobiphenyls
  • Organochlorine pesticides
  • Dibenzo-P Dioxin**
  • Dibenzofuran**

** Dioxins and Furans only once a year

Click here for more detailed information about the determinands and the scope of accreditation.

Major and Trace Elements

Deteminands groep

  • Metals

Click here for more detailed information about the determinands and the scope of accreditation.

Brominated Flame Retardants

Deteminands groep

  • Brominated Flame Retarders

Click here for more detailed information about the determinands and the scope of accreditation.

Others and Experimental

Determinand group

  • Other parameters (CN fractions, organic and inorganic C, halogeneted hydrocarbons, mineral oil)
  • Experimental

Click here for more detailed information about the determinands and the scope of accreditation.

How to participate

Complete the application form.

Fees

Fees depend on your choice of programme and your preferred number of rounds per year.

Webshop

When available, leftover samples, to be used as reference materials, can be ordered in the WEPAL-QUASIMEME webshop. Participants are entitled to a discount.