Traceability in Chemical Analysis – What Does that Mean?

Today, many results of chemical analyses show a poor comparability as can be shown by interlaboratory comparisons. This is partly due to the fact that a widely accepted metrological measurement basis is not yet existing for chemical analysis. Also, in many cases the uncertainty of the whole analytical procedure is not known. However, due to increasing globalisation, the mutual recognition and thus the reliability and comparability of measurement results is an important issue. Chemists and metrologist worldwide have been working on a concept to achieve comparable results. The present activities in order to improve comparability of results are described and a concept to achieve traceability to the SI (Système International d'Unités) is presented.