Is there a need for a field and procedural blank for every sampling?

Answer Explanations

• Yes (please explain)

  Expert 3
  Ideally, yes. Sampling conditions, weather, airborne contamination, trip cross-contamination, all of these could very with each sampling, and such variation needs to be accounted for. 
• Yes (please explain)

  Expert 9
  To clarify my response, I would recommend that these blank samples should be conducted for every batch of samples collected. The draft review recommends 10% of analyses should comprise such QC check samples (specifically blank and recovery checks). I think this is a reasonable and pragmatic approach.
• Yes (please explain)

  Expert 2
  Yes, in most of the cases, especially in the case of  environmental sampling, pharmaceuticals, or analytical chemistry, both a field blank and a procedural (or lab) blank are necessary for each sampling event. These controls help ensure data integrity by identifying potential sources of contamination. A field blank is used to detect contamination that may occur during sampling, transport, or storage in the field, while a procedural blank is designed to reveal any contamination introduced during sample preparation and analysis in the laboratory. However, whether a blank is needed for every individual sample depends on the specific objectives of the study and the level of quality assurance required. 
• Yes (please explain)

  Expert 4
  Especially as the analytical chemistry of MNP in most matrices is still in what can be considered its infancy, it is needed to include all kinds of blanks for every series of samples. Most likely, less blanks are needed when more information is obtained on the performance of such blanks over time.
• Yes (please explain)

  Expert 1
  One of the major sources of error in the analysis of MNPs is contamination from the environment.  Field and procedural blanks help account for such contamination in the field or lab environment.  
• No

  Expert 5
  multiple samples taken at the same place and time only need one field blank.
• Yes (please explain)

  Expert 6
  Yes, it is necessary and useful to correct for human error and contamination. 
• Yes (please explain)

  Expert 8
  absolutely, each field sampling campaign (if not day in the field) needs a field blank.  The lab or procedural blank is needed one for each sample set that goes through the same procedure.
• Yes (please explain)

  Expert 7
  Field environment changes all the time and MNP can be introduced from ventilation and other sources and they are not constant. 
  Lab based contamination can happen with time also.