Analysis of Heavy Metals in PM10 - Measuring Methods and Uncertainty of Measurement

The Joint Research Centre has carried out an Intercomparison Exercise (IE) for the determination of Lead, Arsenic, Nickel and Cadmium, the heavy metals regulated by the European Directives. Fourteen Laboratories, participated in the IE using generally microwave digestion and ICP-MS or GF-AAS for analysis as recommended in the CEN reference method. However, a few participants used other analytical (EDXRF, AES and Voltammetry) and digestion (hot plate before microwave digestion, Soxhlet extraction, high pressure or cold Hydrogen Fluoride) methods. Each participant analysed 5 types of samples: a liquid Certified Reference Material (CRM), two sub-samples of a dust CRM (one digested by the JRC and one to be digested by the participant) and two air-filters (one digested by JRC and one to be digested by the participant). After data treatment, conclusions are drawn about the capacity of participants to meet the Data Quality Objectives of the Directives. It is checked that the differences between participant results and the reference values of the test samples remain within the reported uncertainty. The repeatability/reproducibility of the method of measurements and of all laboratories are evaluated.JRC.H.4-Transport and air qualit