The Project summary

The project activities are grouped in 4 technical work packages, plus one creating impact and one management and coordination work package.

 

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Background

Reliable analysis of chemical indicators in water, sediment and soil samples for the purpose of environmental pollution assessment poses one of the greatest analytical challenges, having in mind the complexity of sample matrix and low concentrations of pollutants. Organics (pesticides, PAHs, PCBs, etc.) and heavy metals (Hg, Cd, Ni, Pb and As) represent target parameters.
Laboratories performing sampling and tests in this field regulated by respective EU directives [1] need strong support in terms of providing them with appropriate matrix CRMs enabling the process of quality control. NMIs and DIs with proven metrological capabilities for the production and certification of such materials are necessary for the provision of quality data.
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Aim

This project aims to develop capacity to produce CRMs for environmental analysis by transferring the theoretical and practical know-how between the partners and combining their skills to focus on environmental CRM production in accordance with ISO Guide 34 [2].
Production process includes good manufacturing practices for processing materials, method development and validation for homogeneity, stability and characterisation tests, characterisation of selected analytes together with additional information about matrix constituents, the calculation of individual uncertainties (between units inhomogeneity, long term stability, characterisation) and combination of uncertainties to determine overall uncertainty of the matrix reference materials.
An inter laboratory comparison registered as EURAMET project is set as the ultimate project outcome, confirming the partners’ capabilities in applying newly acquired skills.
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Impact

The main impact of this project will be to build the capacity and capability in the partner institutes for producing and certifying environmental reference materials. This in turn will have an impact on environmental monitoring in those countries and on the scientific community, who will use the newly developed reference materials.

The EU water quality directive 2000/60/EC with corresponding directives (Environmental Quality Standards Directive 2008/105/EC etc.) aims at adequate control of water resources. By conducting specific measures against pollution of water by individual pollutants or groups of pollutants presenting a significant risk to or via the aquatic environment long-term deterioration of freshwater quality and quantity can be avoid, and therefore achieve sustainable management and protection of freshwater resources.

Furthermore, the NMIs/DIs will develop strategies for producing new CRMs will have projected Socio-Economical and Industrial impact. The development of production and certification of RM will directly impact National Reference Laboratories involved in QA/QC activities, and through them industry dealing with water quality. By improving the quality of CRM used in these laboratories, allowing for better regulation of the sectors above, this project will contribute indirectly to reduce the risk of water pollutants and therefore to improve the quality of life, reduce economical and industrial burden in each country.

At the end, the project will result in long term public benefit by providing tools for the reliable analysis of environmental pollutants.
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