New Approach to Geochemical Measurement: Estimation of Measurement Uncertainty from Sampling, rather than an Assumption of Representative Sampling

Abstract

It is argued that the current division between field sampling and chemical analysis is counterproductive in terms of ensuring that geochemical measurement results are fit for their intended purpose. An integrated approach to the whole measurement process has many advantages including no dependence on the two assumptions that either the samples are necessarily representative if taken with a correct protocol, or that the measurement results can be assumed to be true values of chemical concentration. The measurement results then require values of measurement uncertainty, including that from sampling as well as from chemical analysis. This enables the user of the measurement results, rather than the producer, to judge their fitness for a specific purpose. Case studies are used to illustrate the practicality and benefits of this new approach, including the use of measurement results with optimal, but relatively high, levels of uncertainty to make reliable decisions. This contrasts with the traditional assumption that pursuit of the lowest possible measurement uncertainty is the best approach.