Centres Científics i Tecnològics UB

News

12.03.2026

The CCiTUB stand out in international interlaboratory exercises that assess analytical quality in mass spectrometry and atomic spectroscopy

The Applied Mass Spectrometry–Isotopic Analysis Unit (EMAI) and the Atomic and Molecular Spectroscopy Unit (EAM) regularly participate in interlaboratory exercises with the aim of maintaining active quality control of the analyses carried out by the technical staff of the Units using different techniques.

Over the past year, EMAI conducted molecular analysis exercises using GC/MS, elemental and isotopic analysis using EA/TC‑IRMS, CHNSO‑F elemental analysis, and gravimetry, all with highly satisfactory results. The evaluated parameters were:

  1. 15N,13C,34S,2H,18O and NCHS,O in various matrices (MATCONTROL, FIRMS-LGC)
  2. Volatile organic compounds in water (IELAB)
  3. Fluoride in drinking water (IELAB)
  4. Filter gravimetry (INSST) 

Regarding EAM, the unit participated in atomic spectroscopy analysis exercises using ICP‑OES and ICP‑MS, also achieving very satisfactory results. The evaluated parameters were:

  1. Al, As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Zn in various food matrices (FAPAS)
  2. Al, As, B, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, K, Mg, Mn, Na, Ni, Pb, Sb, Se, U, Zn in drinking water (IELAB)

Across all interlaboratory exercises, the methodologies established by the CCiTUB Units were applied, including equipment verification and maintenance, use of standards and reference materials, sample storage protocols, calibration criteria, data normalization methods, and analytical uncertainty evaluation. All these procedures are validated and audited under the ISO 9001 standard, ensuring the reliability, consistency, and robustness of the results.

What are interlaboratory exercises?

Interlaboratory exercises are comparative assessments in which several laboratories analyze the same samples to verify the precision, accuracy, and consistency of their results. These tests help evaluate laboratory performance and are a key tool in quality control, as they allow the identification of potential deviations, validation of methodologies, and assurance that laboratories maintain internationally recognized analytical standards.

In the recent exercises carried out by the Units, laboratories from around the world participated, highlighting the importance and international scope of these evaluations.