The objective of this practice is to provide guidelines for the preparation of samples for use in collaborative tests, to evaluate methods during their development, and for the evaluation of the precision and bias of proposed test methods.

Statements of the precision and bias are a mandatory part of ASTM test methods. Such an evaluation is necessary to provide guidance to the user as to the reliability of measurements that can be expected by its use. The statements are developed on the basis of user experience (ordinarily collaborative tests) with the test method.

The availability of test samples is a key requirement for collaborative evaluation of test methods.

1.1 This practice establishes uniform general procedures for the development, (preparation) and use of samples in the collaborative testing of methods for chemical analysis of sediments and similar materials.

1.2 The principles of this practice are applicable to aqueous samples with suitable technical modifications.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.