Round Robin 2026
Top Analytica Oy, in cooperation with the Finnish Electron Microscopy Society (SEMS), is organizing an interlaboratory comparison focused on microanalysis (SEM, EPMA and µ-XRF).
Each participating laboratory will receive a test series consisting of approximately 10 samples. This time, the samples consist of binary metal alloys and different steel grades, whose compositions will be determined by the participating laboratories. The estimated measurement time is approximately 1 hour.
The participation fee of EUR 400.00 (VAT 0%) includes certified reference materials, which will remain available to the participant after the comparison, as well as a summary report of the results.
Register by November 30, 2026:
Why participate?
The interlaboratory comparison provides an opportunity to:
- Assess the accuracy and reliability of your own analysis by comparing measurement results with the known values of certified reference materials.
- Identify potential systematic deviations and areas for improvement in your measurement method, equipment or analytical process.
- Compare your laboratory’s results with those of other participants and gain practical insight into differences between laboratories and analytical methods.
- Support the operation of laboratory quality systems and competency requirements by participating in an interlaboratory comparison.
- Continue to benefit from the certified reference materials after the interlaboratory comparison. The samples remain with the participants and can therefore be used later, for example, for monitoring instrument performance, method validation and development, or staff training.
- Improve measurement accuracy by using known compositions to support the development of your analytical method and, where appropriate, the optimization of calibration or measurement parameters.
Certified reference materials remain useful after the Round Robin
A particular benefit of this interlaboratory comparison is that certified reference materials are used as test samples. Their compositions and certified reference values are known, allowing participants to assess their measurement results against an independent reference value. The Round Robin also provides participants with a practical tool for evaluating and monitoring the performance of their analytical method. After the test, the samples remain with the participants, so the benefits of taking part in the interlaboratory comparison extend beyond the actual measurement event.
Reporting of results
The test results will be presented anonymously in a summary report. Each participant will be able to identify their own results using their personal participant number.
The results of the Round Robin will also be presented at the Top Analytica workshop on April 14–16, 2027, in Turku, Finland. The event will also include the Annual Meeting of the Finnish Electron Microscopy Society (SEMS). Both the Round Robin results presentation and the Annual Meeting are open and free of charge to SEMS members.
If you would also like to participate in the full workshop event, discounted tickets are available for SEMS members.