Resources

Measurement Basics

Product Data Sheets

Anodic Stripping Voltammetry (ASV)

Accuracy and Approved Methods

Accuracy and Approved Methods

Accuracy

Nano-Band electrodes, when used with the Nano-Band Explorer instrument, feature 5% accuracy with calibration, and 20% accuracy without calibration. This level of accuracy is verified at the detection limit of 1ppb to 100ppb.

How does this compare to the accuracy required by federal agencies?

The two ASTM methods cited below contain data that show typical results for a related anodic stripping technique utilizing different electrodes. In summary, the ASTM methods indicate standard deviations over multiple operators from seven different laboratories at approximately 10 % of the measured reading (the target range was 10 - 80 ppb of lead and cadmium). The cited ASTM method document also compares the anodic stripping technique to the atomic-absorption, graphite-furnace technique and finds the two comparable in accuracy at the ppb level.

Approved Methods

The methods supported by the Nano-Band Explorer are certified by the EPA and other federal agencies. The approved methods are listed below, along with the approving agency and whether the method applies to a particular sample, metal, or electrode type:

  • American Society for Testing Materials: ASTM Method D3557-95: Cadmium in Water
  • American Society for Testing Materials: ASTM Method D3559-95: Cadmium in Water
  • EPA Method 7198: Hexavalent Chromium in Water (1986)
  • EPA Method 1001: Lead in Drinking Water by ASV (1999)
  • EPA Method 7063: Arsenic and Selenium in Sediment Samples and Extracts by ASV
  • EPA Method 7412: Mercury in Aqueous Samples and Extracts by ASV
  • AOAC Method 986.15: Arsenic, Cadmium, Lead, Selenium, and Zinc in Human and Pet Foods (1988)
  • AOAC Method 982.23: Cadmium and Lead in Food (not for fats and oils) (1988)
  • AOAC Method 974.13: Lead in Evaporated Milk (1976)
  • AOAC Method 979.17: Lead in Evaporated Milk and Fruit Juice (1984)
  • NIOSH Method 7701: Lead in air by Ultrasound/ASV (1999)
  • Method 3130: Metals by Anodic Stripping Voltammetry (Proposed by American Public Health Association, American Water Works Association, and the Water Environment Federation, 1995