Where contamination comes from
Sample preparation, including crushing, splitting and pulverizing, is a stage where one sample can contaminate the next. A high-grade sample followed by a low-grade one is the classic risk.
Practical ways to prevent it
- Clean equipment between samples or batches, for example with compressed air, brushing or a wash with barren material.
- Process samples in a sensible order where possible, with low-grade material before high-grade.
- Include blanks so that any carry-over can be detected.
Why it matters
Even a small amount of carry-over can change a low-grade result. Careful preparation protects the quality of the final analysis.
RVA Labs offers a standard sample preparation package covering drying, crushing, splitting and pulverizing.
