Sample Selection and Handling Guide

Selecting Samples

1. Representativeness: Provide samples that are representative of the general problem you are trying to address.

2. Number of samples: We recommend sending multiple representative samples so we can create the most complete and informative analysis possible.

Handling

1. Hazardous or corrosive materials: Please alert us to any known dangers involved in handling your samples. Include any relevant SDS documents with your shipment or send them by email.

2. Material handling:Take care to ensure samples are not contaminated during handling or shipping in ways that could compromise their character. Even fingerprints may contaminate or ruin a sample.

3. Proper handling — very important:

   • Handle all samples with clean gloves.

   • Do not contaminate samples with machining oils or cooling fluids if they are cut from larger pieces.

   • Leave sample cleaning to us, or discuss any cleaning methods with our team before sending samples.

4. Packing: Whenever possible, make sure the surfaces to be analyzed do not come into contact with packing materials. If this is unavoidable, use clean packing materials. Wrapping samples in plain food-storage aluminum foil is a good option for maintaining cleanliness. Do not use non-stick foil. Label the back side of each sample so they are easy to distinguish from one another