For scientists, accurate results are the end-all-be-all. While every researcher tries their best to ensure the accuracy of their results the first time around, sometimes science has other plans. A piece of equipment may be out of calibration, or a consumable may be past its shelf life. Still, there are ways to jumpstart accurate testing. In this roundtable discussion with METTLER TOLEDO experts across multiple solutions, learn crucial tips for getting your testing and analysis off on the right foot—ensuring you’re left with accurate results at the end.
For accurate pH testing, Alexandra Hellberg, Technology Applications Consultant, suggests the following:
- Monitor electrode health. Chose instrumentation that saves calibration data, tracks slope and offset and alerts to end of lifespan.
- Use fresh buffers to ensure proper calibration. Single-use buffer sachets eliminate additional exposure to air and potential cross-contamination.
- Control temperature of both the sample and buffer solutions. Calibrating and measuring at the same temperature is essential to avoid compounding errors.
For accurate conductivity testing, Michelle Wittmer, Technology Applications Consultant, says:
- Monitor electrode health. Verification of the cell constant with technical buffers should be executed daily to prove electrode is fit for use.
- Select the appropriate standards. Align standard selection with the measuring range of the conductivity probe.
- Understand the effects of temperature. Enabling temperature correction requires the use of an alpha coefficient, which is specific to each sample.
For accurate weighing, Jason Pressly, Technology Applications Consultant, says:
- Calibrate and verify instrumentation. It is critical to know the proper instrument to use, how to test the instrument (and how frequently to do so), which weights to use for these tests, and what tolerances to assign.
- Mitigate outside sources. Elements like airflow, vibrations, static and temperature fluctuations could interfere with accurate weighing results.
For accurate moisture analysis, Raphael Kunz, Technology Applications Consultant, suggests lab specialists:
- Test often and regularly. Ensure your moisture analyzer is operating according to specifications at all times. This is achieved with regular (1 to 2x per year) adjustment/calibration of the heating and the weighing unit with certified temperature kit and certified test weights, as well as in-between routine testing (e.g. monthly).
- Follow good practice. In terms of sample handling and method parameters, it is important to always follow good moisture analysis practice. Refer to this Moisture Method Development reference paper to help guide you through the setup of a robust moisture method for your sample, including the right sample preparation and sample application.