ASTM International

Standard Guide for Spiking Organics into Aqueous Samples
 N D5788

Annotation

This guide covers the general technique of "spiking" aqueous samples with organic analytes or components. It is intended to be applicable to a broad range of organic materials in aqueous media. Although the specific details and handling procedures required for all types of compounds are not described, this general approach is given to serve as a guideline to the analyst in accurately preparing spiked samples for subsequent analysis or comparison. Guidance is also provided to aid the analyst in calculating recoveries and interpreting results. It is the responsibility of the analyst to determine whether the methods and materials cited here are compatible with the analytes of interest.

The procedures in this guide are focused on "matrix spike" preparation, analysis, results, and interpretation. The applicability of these procedures to the preparation of calibration standards, calibration check standards, laboratory control standards, reference materials, and other quality control materials by spiking is incidental. A sample (the matrix) is fortified (spiked) with the analyte of interest for a variety of analytical and quality control purposes. While the spiking of multiple sample test portions is discussed, the method of standard additions is not covered.

This guide is intended for use in conjunction with the individual analytical test method that provides procedures for analysis of the analyte or component of interest. The test method is used to determine an analyte or component's background level and, again after spiking, its now elevated level. Each test method typically provides procedures not only for samples, but also for calibration standards or analytical control solutions, or both. These procedures include preparation, handling, storage, preservation, and analysis techniques. These procedures are applicable by extension, using the analyst's judgement on a case-by-case basis, to spiking solutions, and are not reiterated in this guide. See also Practice E200 for preparation and storage information.