Calibration And Measurement Capabilities Research Articles

CIPM MRA support for hydrogen metrology – A case study

The CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPMMRA) provides one of the most profound frameworks for internationally recognized metrological traceability to the international system of units (SI). National Metrology Institutes demonstrate the international equivalence of their measurement standards and the calibration and measurement certificates they issue through the CIPMMRA. CIPMMRA activities comprise the organization and evaluation of key and supplementary comparisons (KCs/SCs) and the declaration of calibration and measurement capabilities (CMCs) in the BIPM key comparison database (KCDB). In this contribution we showcase up-to-date CIPMMRA activities that could be used in support of hydrogen as a future option for the diversification of energy sources. Relevant metrology areas are chemistry and biology, thermometry, mass, and length. There are already 3 KCs in progress within the CIPMMRA that are directly related to the hydrogen topic and a number of earlier KCs/SCs on other relavant quantities. Todate, the KCDB contains CMCs published by National Metrology Institutes which are dealing exactly with hydrogen as the analyte or which relate to measurement capabilities that are relevant in the context of hydrogen as future energy source.

Traceability in Organic Analysis. Report 2. State Primary Standard in the Field of Organic Analysis GET 208: Limits of Competence and Scope of Application

The article summarizes the history of the creation of the State Primary Standard in the field of organic analysis GET 208 and a description of the standard. The authors outlined the limits of competence and scope of application of GET 208. The issues of developing calibration and measurement capabilities (CMCs) in the field of organic analysis are considered using the example of relevant key comparisons. The CMCs of GET 208 are presented, which are documented in the BIPM database and confirm the equivalence of the Russian state standard and the national standards of other signatories to the CIPM MRA. In addition, information on the possibilities of reproducing, storing, and transmitting measurement units from GET 208 has been systematized in order to ensure the uniformity of measurements and metrological traceability of measurement results in the Russian Federation.

Supplementary comparison SIM.M.FF-S9.2016 for water flow measurement

Main textThe objective of the Supplementary Comparison (SC) SIM.M.FF-S9 for water flow measurement was to support and prove the Calibration and Measurement Capabilities (CMC) of the participating NMIs of Chile (CISA), Peru (INACAL), Bolivia (IBMETRO) and Argentina (INTI). As pilot laboratories, the national metrology institutes of Germany (PTB) and CENAM (Mexico) supported the comparison with reference values. The comparison was organized as a single round robin, started in January 2016 at PTB and finished in August 2019, also at PTB. A combined setup of a turbine meter and Coriolis meter was used as a transfer standard. The nominal calibration conditions of the SC were defined in the flow range between 10 m3/h and 130 m3/h, 20 °C fluid temperature and 0.3 MPa line pressure. In order to estimate the uncertainties u TS, both transfer meters were subjected to extensive characterization measurements at pilot laboratory PTB. The following parameters were researched in detail: fluid temperature, line pressure, reproducibility, flow stability and meter sensitivity to different inflow conditions. The E N values for the turbine meter were calculated based on PTB data, only. The E N values for the Coriolis meter are partly linked to Key Comparison CCM.FF-K1.2015 and were calculated using a common reference value of PTB and CENAM data. The uncertainty of turbine meter u TS was clearly dominated by the sensitivity to disturbed inflow conditions which leads to large values of u TS with > 0.20 %. Beside one calibration, all labs passed the E N criteria of ≤ 1.20. But, due to large values of u TS, the calibrations for all labs were evaluated as inconclusive. The evaluation criteria u comp/u base exceeded the critical value of 2.00 for all calibrations. Finally, the turbine meter was not suitable for a confirmation of the submitted CMC values. The calibration results of the Coriolis meter were characterized by a strong dependency on zero setting. The observed effect was adjusted for the data of both reference laboratories by introducing a new method for autozero correction. Maximum uncertainty values for Coriolis u TS were estimated with 0.069 % at low flowrates and 0.033 % at high flowrates. Besides two calibrations, all laboratories complied with the E N criteria of ≤ 1.20. In contrast to turbine meter, the evaluation criteria u comp/u base exceeded the critical value of 2.00 at one calibration, only. In consequence, the calibrations by using the Coriolis meter were suitable for a confirmation of the submitted CMC values. In summary, the comparison was successfully finished for a confirmation of the submitted CMC values, related to mass calibrations. For volume related CMCs this comparison was not suitable.The comparison was partially financially supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) - PNs: 2012.2296.7-95259, 2015.2037.8-95306 and 2017.2073.9-95328.To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database https://www.bipm.org/kcdb/.The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).

Euramet RMO supplementary comparison low pressure air flow between 25m3/h and 400 m3/h

Main textThe purpose of this Supplementary Comparison (SC) for "Low Pressure Air Flow" measurement is to support the Calibration and Measurement Capabilities (CMC) of the participating National Metrology Institutes and Designated Institutes according to CIPM MRA-G-13. The outcome of this comparison should lead to 'a clear and unequivocal' comparison of measurement results between participants.The comparison was performed over the span of one year which started in March 2021 with the determination of the volume flow rate error of the test artifact by VSL. The test artifact was shipped to each participant where they also determined the volume flow rate error in turn. At the completion by all participants, the artifact was shipped back to VSL for a final calibration to show the stability of the artifact.To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database https://www.bipm.org/kcdb/.The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).

Comparisons of standards for liquid flow rates under static load changes

Main textThis report presents the results of an inter-laboratory comparison (ILC) organized in order to determine the degrees of equivalence of standards for liquid static flow rates in the range of 50 kg/h to 36 000 kg/h under ambient pressure and temperature conditions. Water was used as the calibration fluid.The objective of the comparison was to support and prove the Calibration and Measurement Capabilities (CMC) in liquid flow of the participating NMIs and DIs CETIAT (France), PTB (Germany), FORCE (Denmark), DTI (Denmark), CMI (Czech Republic), RISE (Sweden), VTT (Finland), BEV (Austria), LEI (Lithuania), SMU (Slovakia) and UME TUBITAK (Turkey). The comparison was organized and evaluated by CETIAT, CMI and PTB as pilot laboratories. The comparison was carried out as a three-loop robin, which started in September 2020 at CETIAT and finished in June 2021, also at CETIAT.Two Coriolis mass flow meters were used as transfer standards. In order to estimate the uncertainties u TS, both transfer meters were subjected to characterization measurements at pilot laboratory CETIAT. The following parameters were researched in detail: fluid temperature, line pressure, reproducibility and the effect of zero setting. Following the results of the Chi2-test, one set point of one participant was discarded from the E N calculation.The comparison shows very good agreement between the 11 participating laboratories. Only one laboratory failed the comparison at two set points due to an E N value > 1.2. Two laboratories showed comparison results at "warning level". In order to follow the latest developments in the field of flow comparison evaluation, the standard procedure of COX (2002) was extended by an application of two additional criteria, as for inconclusive or conclusive decisions for calibration. In sum, four laboratories were affected by inconclusive calibration results.The comparison has received financial support from the EMPIR project 17IND13 Metrowamet.To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database https://www.bipm.org/kcdb/.The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).

EURAMET.T-K.7 Comparison : Inter-laboratory comparison of triple point of water cells

Main textThe purpose of this comparison was to compare the results of the participating laboratories at the triple point of water temperature (TPW) and assess the uncertainty on the practical realization of triple point of water temperature by the participant laboratories and also to support the Calibration and Measurement Capabilities (CMC) entries of the participating laboratories for this fixed point. This comparison was initiated as a EURAMET project with project number 1357. Initially, the participants of the comparison included the Metrology Institutes of Albania (DPM), F.Y.R Macedonia (BOM), Montenegro (MBM) and Serbia (DMDM). But at the later stages of the comparison, these countries understandably chose to leave the comparison instead of repeating the measurements due to an unexpected problem. On the other hand, participants from GULFMET organization, Emirates Metrology Institute (EMI) and National Measurement and Calibration Center at Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (SASO NMCC) and also Jordan National Metrology Institute (JNMI) were included in the comparison after having approvals of each participating laboratory. Then the comparison was registered as Key Comparison with the name EURAMET.T-K7-4 in BIPM KCDB. Finally, two loops was combined together and five institutes performed the comparison with the single circulating TPW Cell. This report presents the results of the TPW comparison and gives detailed information about the measurements made at TUBİTAK UME and participating laboratories.To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database https://www.bipm.org/kcdb/.The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCT, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).

Report of the CCRI(II) supplementary international comparison of measurement of activity per unit mass of Cs-134 and Cs-137 in wheat flour (CCRI(II)-S13)

Main textA supplementary international comparison of measurement of activity per unit mass of Cs-134 and Cs-137 in wheat flour (CCRI(II)-S13) was carried out by CCRI in 2018. The matrix of the sample was wheat harvested in 2011 after the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident. No spiking was applied to the sample. Twelve institutes reported their results. Averages of the reported results and the associated uncertainties were obtained using the power-moderated mean. This report describes the supplementary comparison reference value, the degrees of equivalence of the results, the procedures of this comparison, and the sample preparation and measurements by the participants. Successful participation in this comparison by a laboratory may provide evidential support for Calibration and Measurement Capability (CMC) claims for Cs-134 and Cs-137 measured using the laboratory's method(s) used in the comparison or methods calibrated by those used for the comparison.To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database https://www.bipm.org/kcdb/.The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCRI, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).

CCQM Key Comparison track A CCQM-K168: Non-polar analytes in high carbohydrate food matrix: trans-zearalenone in maize powder

Main textDemonstrating competency and equivalence for the measurement capacity of contaminants and nutrients in primary foodstuffs is a priority of the OAWG 10-year strategy for Track A core comparisons. Such measurements have posed significant challenges for reference material producers and calibration service providers. This key comparison (KC), under the topic of "non- polar analyte in high carbohydrate food matrix: trans-Zearalenone (trans-ZEN) in maize powder", was a sector of the model system selected to align with this class within the OAWG strategy. Evidence of successful participation in formal, relevant international comparisons is needed to demonstrate the Calibration and Measurement Capabilities (CMCs) of National Metrology Institutes (NMIs) and Designated Institutes (DIs).17 NMIs and DIs participated in the Track A KC CCQM-K168 "non-polar analyte in high carbohydrate food matrix: trans-ZEN in maize powder". Participants were requested to evaluate the mass fraction (μg/kg) of trans-ZEN in maize powder material. Methods like liquid-liquid extraction and SPE were applied in the pre-treatment, and HPLC-MS/MS and HPLC-FLD were used for detection by the participants. The mass fractions for trans-ZEN were in the range of (91.8 to 169) μg/kg with standard uncertainties of (1.5 to 24.7) μg/kg, and corresponding relative standard uncertainties from 1.5% to 14.6%. Two laboratories, INTI and BAM were excluded from the key comparison reference value (KCRV) evaluation. INTI result was identified as an outlier and confirmed their method had insufficient specificity. For BAM the calibration approach they used does not meet the CIPM traceability requirements. The other 15 laboratories included in the calculation of the consensus KCRV all agreed within their standard uncertainties. Hierarchical Bayes was used as estimators in calculating KCRV and standard uncertainty.Successful participation in CCQM-K168 demonstrates the measurement capabilities in determining mass fraction of organic compounds, with molecular mass of 100 g/mol to 500 g/mol, having low polarity pKow < -2, in mass fraction range from 1 μg/kg to 1000 μg/kg in a high carbohydrate food matrix.To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database https://www.bipm.org/kcdb/.The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCQM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).

Measurement of serum uric acid by isotope dilution liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry: Modification of a candidate reference measurement method and its clinical application

Uric acid is a precipitating factor for gout and renal disease, and regular monitoring of uric acid concentration is essential for health management. Hence, accurate measurement is indispensable for clinical diagnosis. Reference measurement procedure (RMP) is an essential element to ensure accuracy and comparability of tested results. In this study, the optimization of a candidate RMP (cRMP) adopting isotope dilution coupled with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (ID-LC-MS/MS) method for human serum uric acid measurement has been developed. The accuracy of this cRMP was validated by measuring certified reference materials (CRMs) and participating in the external quality assessment (EQA) scheme initiated by International Federation of Clinical Chemistry (IFCC) and National Center for Clinical Laboratory (NCCL). Biases were −0.64-1.51%, which were within the required equivalent limit. Excellent precision was obtained with intra- and inter-assay CVs of 0.42–0.73% and 0.20–0.43%, respectively. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) was determined to be 0.24 and 1.19 μmol/L, respectively. A good liner response was obtained ranged from 30.0 to 895 μmol/L. Compared with the previous RMP for uric acid, the much easier one-step protein precipitation method without further evaporation, the simplified isocratic elution of chromatographic separation condition, and the shorter analysis running time in only 5 min allowed simpler and faster analysis. Moreover, this optimized cRMP was also applied for value assignment for clinical serum samples covered a wide concentration range of uric acid and obtained a decent calibration and measurement capability (CMC).

National and Global Status of the High Pressure Measurement and Calibration Facilities

Rapid and increasing use of high-pressure technology in science and engineering over the last few decades has prompted researchers to look for better instruments and technologies with lower measurement uncertainties in diversified applications wherein pressure is used as one of the most crucial process parameters. The present paper discusses the succinct assessment of high-pressure metrology (HPM). A graphical summary of the various key & supplementary comparisons (K&SC) carried out in pressure metrology along with Calibration and Measurement Capabilities (CMCs) of the various National Metrology Institutes(NMIs) is also included. Also discussed are the overview of the various high-pressure measurement facilities established at CSIRNPL, India and a summary of the various Proficiency Testing (PT) Programs conducted as reference laboratory by CSIR-NPL for140 testing and calibration laboratories, accredited by the National Accreditation Board for the Testing and Calibration of Laboratories (NABL), India. The paper also briefly describes the impact of redefined SI unit of mass on the realization of the pressure scale. It is always difficult to find a concise report on all the aspects of a specific measuring parameter, high pressure in the present case, in a single window, therefore, authors believe that the present paper would be highly useful for the students, engineers, researchers, metrologists, industries, accredited laboratories, and other users.

Final report "Key comparison CCM.FF-K1.2015 - water flow: 30 m3/h ... 200 m3/h"

Main textThe objective of the Key Comparison CCM.FF-K1.2015 for water flow measurement was to support and prove the Calibration and Measurement Capabilities (CMC) of the participating NMIs of Japan (AIST), Mexico (CENAM), Chinese Taipei (ITRI), Korea (KRISS), P.R. China (NIM), Germany (PTB), USA (NIST), Sweden (RISE), UK (NEL), Turkey (TUBITAK UME) and Netherlands (VSL). The comparison was organized as a round robin, started in December 2015 at PTB and finished in April 2018, also at PTB. As pilot laboratory, the national metrology institute of Germany (PTB) organised the comparison. A combined setup of a turbine meter and Coriolis meter was used as a transfer standard (TS), which was provided by the pilot laboratory. The nominal calibration conditions of the KC were defined within the flow range between 30 m3/h and 200 m3/h, 20 °C fluid temperature and 3 bar line pressure.A special focus of the comparison was to estimate the uncertainties of the transfer standard (u TS). Both transfer meters were subjected to extensive characterization measurements at pilot laboratory, with the following investigated parameters: fluid temperature, line pressure, repeatability, flow stability, meter sensitivity to varying inflow conditions and hysteresis effects.For turbine meter, all labs passed the E N criteria of ≤ 1.20. The calibrations of the turbine meter were strongly affected by the presence of the large values for u TS with > 0.12 % k =1) which were mainly caused by the meter sensitivity to disturbed inflow conditions. This effect led to inconclusive calibration results for all laboratories. The evaluation criteria u comp/u base exceeded the critical value of 2.00. Finally, the turbine meter was not suitable for a confirmation of all submitted CMC values.For Coriolis meter, all labs passed the E N criteria of ≤ 1.20. In contrast to turbine meter, the evaluation criteria u comp/u base exceeded the critical value of 2.00 for one laboratory, only. The maximum uncertainty u TS of Coriolis meter was estimated with 0.022 % (k =1).In summary, the comparison was successfully finished for a confirmation of the submitted CMC values, related to mass calibrations. For volume related CMCs this comparison was not suitable.To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database https://www.bipm.org/kcdb/.The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).

Supplementary comparison of the measurement of the alpha and beta particle surface emission rates from large area sources (CCRI(II)-S10 LASCE)

Main textIn 2009, the Consultative Committee for Ionizing Radiation (CCRI) approved its first supplementary comparison, to be organized by the ENEA (as the pilot laboratory), for the measurement of the alpha and beta particle surface (i.e. 2 solid angle) emission rate from large area sources of the type used for calibrating surface contamination monitors. Five sources were disseminated to the twenty-three participating laboratories consisting of one each of 241Am, 14C, 147Pm and 90Sr for emission rate measurements, with one additional 90Sr source for the evaluation of source uniformity. Measurements of the radionuclide activity and radionuclidic purity were also made although not strictly required. This report describes the organization of this comparison and the material and measurement methods used. The proposed supplementary comparison reference values (SCRV) for each of the comparison measurands are given, together with the Degrees of Equivalence and their associated uncertainties for each participating laboratory. The results of this supplementary comparison may be used as evidence by participating National Metrology Institutes (NMIs) and Designated Institutes (DIs) when submitting calibration and measurement capabilities (CMCs) for the given radionuclides for similar types of large area sources; this is an important aspect of this comparison, given that only one other international supplementary comparison for surface emission rates had been organized before.To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database https://www.bipm.org/kcdb/.The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCRI, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).

EURAMET.M.FF-S13 final report

Main textThe purpose of the Supplementary Comparison (S13) for water flow measurement (EURAMET 1473 and EURAMET.M.FF-S13) is to support the Calibration and Measurement Capabilities (CMC) entry of VTT MIKES, the National Metrology Institute of Finland. For this goal, a bilateral comparison between VTT MIKES and PTB Braunschweig was realized. The laboratory "Hydrodynamic Test Field" of department 1.5 "Liquid Flow" acted as the reference facility. The results of the comparison showed good equivalencies and supports the CMC claim of VTT MIKES.To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database https://www.bipm.org/kcdb/.The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).

Report on the AFRIMETS.M. F-S1 supplementary force comparison for 10 kN and 100 kN

Main textThis bilateral comparison of Force Standard Machines (FSM) named AFRIMETS.M. F-S1 was carried out in the force range from 1 kN to 100 kN between Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) of Germany as the pilot laboratory and Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) of Kenya as the participant laboratory. KEBS had already participated in the APMP.M. F-K2 key comparison where measurements were made only at 50 kN and 100 kN force steps. Therefore, this bilateral comparison was planned to thoroughly compare the KEBS FSM and the PTB Deadweight Machines in wider force steps than those of the APMP.M. F-K2 key comparison and thus it had no corresponding key-comparisons values to be linked to at that time. PTB provided two force transducers for the supplementary comparison with 10 kN and 100 kN nominal capacities. The comparison method called "DKD" procedure was used. This procedure has already been used in several comparisons in Germany and other countries. The purpose to this comparison is to give support to the uncertainty claims for KEBS and will be used to determine the Calibration and Measurement Capability (CMC). In addition, this comparison will provide metrological proof of the application for a CMC entry in the BIPM Key Comparison Database (KCDB). This report describes the scheme and results of the comparison.To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database https://www.bipm.org/kcdb/.The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).

Primary standard for traceability in low liquid hydrocarbon fuel flow rates

We developed a primary standard for low liquid hydrocarbon flow rates that works on light oil (diesel), kerosene and industrial gasoline. To achieve a calibration accuracy of below 0.1% over a wide flow range from 0.02 L h−1 to 100 L h−1 as required by the industry, this primary standard adopts the gravimetric calibration method performing static weighing with flying-start-and-finish, incorporating a compactly designed conical rotating double-wing diverter for the upper flow range (1 L h−1 to 100 L h−1) and a pair of high-speed switching valves as a diverter for the lower flow range (0.02 L h−1 to 6 L h−1). The uncertainty of liquid mass measurement (in which the evaporation error is a dominant factor) as well as the uncertainty of liquid collection time (in which the diverter timing error is a major factor) are minimized to a level that curbs their dominance to the overall mass flow uncertainty. On the other hand, the uncertainty due to the estimation of liquid density at the flowmeter under test, which is a significant contributing factor to the overall uncertainty of volumetric flow, is being reduced by temperature control measures through a self-developed thermostatic chamber. Intra-facility and inter-facility comparisons within NMIJ were performed, all showing a good agreement, and hence providing supporting evidence for the calibration and measurement capability (CMC), which are 0.020%–0.044% for the mass flow rates and 0.044%–0.066% for the volumetric flow rates as claimed by the facility.

A laconic capitulation of high pressure metrology

Advanced research on high-pressure metrology (HPM) has taken the field to new heights during the last 190 years. The design and development of the pressure balance (PB), a fundamental instrument, is regarded as a breakthrough development among several other technologies in the field of HPM during this era. The primary standards of HPM, maintained by most of the National Metrology Institutes (NMIs), are based on PBs. The present paper presents a systematic review of the research carried out in HPM. A long chain of several innovative and novel approaches adopted by different researchers in the development process of PB is discussed. The retrospective study presented here includes the working principles of pressure measuring devices; contemporary techniques; design of PBs; implications of recently adopted redefinition of SI units on pressure parameter; summary of existing Calibration and Measurement Capabilities (CMCs) in high pressure range, published in BIPM Key Comparison Database (KCDB) by different NMIs and future of PBs. The present study carried out is an attempt to include the past, present, and future of PBs. The review, therefore, presents a consolidated and concise report on the development of HPM which should be a useful resource for researchers, engineers, scientists and metrologists for future research works.

Improved Model of Global Quality Infrastructure Index (GQII) for Inclusive National Growth

The Quality Infrastructure (QI) of a country relies on 4 major pillars i.e. metrology, standardization, accreditation, and certification. These pillars are closely associated and build a system of national and international organizations for barrier-free trade following relevant, standards, guides, rules and regulations, policies, protocols, etc. The recently developed Aswal model for the effective and robust QI system clearly explains the mechanisms wherein metrology as a core pillar and an invisible force, in association with documentary standards, accreditation, and conformity assessment facilitates the strong interactions among the Government agencies; Universities and Academic Institutions; Science and Technology Institutions; Citizens, Media and industry, for the comprehensive development and inclusive growth of the country for improved quality of life. Ulrich and Matteo proposed a Global Quality Infrastructure Index (GQII) as an indicator to measure the growth and the performance of QI of an economy. In the present paper, improved model is proposed for the GQII. A case study is presented using the improved GQII and utilizing the data available in the public domain i.e. BIPM website related to member states countries (62 countries). Further, the Global Competitiveness Index (GCI) which is used to measure the institutions, policies, and the effective use of available resources for sustainable prosperity and level of prosperity of their citizen is studied and compared with GQII for some of the leading economies. The study also depicts the export status of the leading economics with the GQII. The study clearly indicates the correlation of GQII with various influencing components i.e. calibration and measurement capabilities (CMCs), key and supplementary comparisons (K&SCs), gross domestic product (GDP) per Capita, and % expenditure of GDP incurred on education. GQII value is normally higher with higher participation in key comparisons and having a higher number of CMCs. Similarly, the same trend is obtained between GQII and GDP per capita as well as the % expenditure of GDP incurred on education. The Indian data related to these parameters is also presented and discussed. Admittedly, though utmost care is taken to accommodate the most relevant and latest information and earlier published work, some of the unnoticed discrepancies are not ruled out, which may be unintentional. The study would be very helpful for the government agencies, industry, academia, and enterprises for future decisions and policymaking related to strong and robust QI.

The Statistical Power and Confidence of Some Key Comparison Analysis Methods to Correctly Identify Participant Bias

The validity of calibration and measurement capability (CMC) claims by national metrology institutes is supported by the results of international measurement comparisons. Many methods of comparison analysis are described in the literature and some have been recommended by CIPM Consultative Committees. However, the power of various methods to correctly identify biased results is not well understood. In this work, the statistical power and confidence of some methods of interest to the CIPM Consultative Committees were assessed using synthetic data sets with known properties. Our results show that the common mean model with largest consistent subset delivers the highest statistical power under conditions likely to prevail in mature technical fields, where most participants are in agreement and CMC claims can reasonably be supported by the results of the comparison. Our approach to testing methods is easily applicable to other comparison scenarios or analysis methods and will help the metrology community to choose appropriate analysis methods for comparisons in mature technical fields.

Quality Management System at NPLI: Transition of ISO/IEC 17025 From 2005 to 2017 and Implementation of ISO 17034: 2016

ISO/IEC 17025 is the single most popular and well adopted international standard which is applicable for any testing and calibration laboratories irrespective of size of the laboratories. Similarly, ISO 17034 is also very important international standard for development/production of reference materials (RMs) by competent producers. CSIR-National Physical Laboratory of India (NPLI) was one of the 38 National Metrology Institutes (NMIs) those who signed International Committee for Weights and Measures Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA) during 21st General Conference on Weights and Measures (CGPM) meeting in Paris, France on 14th October, 1999. NPLI has been maintaining quality system based on ISO/IEC 17025 for more than two decades to fulfil the requirements of CIPM MRA. NPLI has participated in 130 international inter-comparisons so far; some of them were also piloted by NPLI. NPLI has also undergone International Peer Reviews through Asia Pacific Metrology Programme (APMP) to register 236 Calibration and Measurement Capabilities (CMCs) on various parameters in International Bureau of Weights and Measures Key Comparison Database (BIPM KCDB). However, NPLI for the first time implemented uniform quality system based on ISO 17034 in 2020. In this direction, NPLI for the first time prepared integrated Quality Manual to make policies, objectives and procedures addressing all the requirements of both the standards. Presently, 28 Sub-Divisions of NPLI follow quality system. Some of the Sub-Divisions are involved only in calibration/testing activities maintain only ISO/IEC 17025: 2017. Similarly, some of the Sub-Divisions are involved only in development/production of RMs/certified reference materials (CRMs) (Bharatiya Nirdeshak Dravya, BND®–Indian Reference Material) maintain only ISO 17034. On the other hand, few Sub-Divisions are involved both in calibration/testing as well as BND activities and accordingly follow both the standards. It is an extraordinary challenge for implementation and monitoring of quality system in such a big organization like NPLI. In this article, authors have highlighted preparation process of integrated quality manual based on ISO/IEC 17025: 2017 and ISO 17034: 2016 including policies, objectives & procedures adopted and its implementation process at NPLI. In November, 2020, NPLI has undergone on-site peer review of quality system of 23 Sub-Divisions through APMP.

An isotope dilution liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry candidate reference measurement procedure for aldosterone measurement in human plasma.

Accurate quantitation of aldosterone is clinically important in standardized testing for primary aldosteronism. The results are often variable when performed by clinical immunoassays. To standardize and ensure the accuracy of clinical systems, reference measurement procedures (RMPs) with higher metrological order are required. A simple and reliable isotope dilution LC-IDMS/MS-based measurement procedure for human plasma aldosterone has been developed. This method involved plasma spiked with a deuterium-labelled internal standard, equilibrated for 0.5h, and extracted by liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) without derivatization. Aldosterone and its structural analogues were baseline separated with a C18-packed UHPLC column with gradient elution within 7min. The signal intensity variability and measurement imprecision were reduced by bracketing calibration during plasma aldosterone value assignment. The limit of detection (LoD) was 19.4pmol/L with a signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) > 3. The lowest limit of quantification (LLoQ) was 27.7pmol/L (S/N > 10 and CV < 10.0%). LLE was performed with 1mL of n-hexane/ethyl acetate (3:2, v/v), and the extraction recovery was determined to be 92.15 ± 3.54%. The imprecisions were ≤ 3.18% for samples at 124.8, 867.0, and 2628.5pmol/L. The recoveries were 98.11-101.61%. The relative bias between this candidate RMP and the established RMP was 2.76-1.89%. The linearity response ranged from 27.7 to 2774.4pmol/L with R2 = 0.999. The method performance met the requirements of RMPs (≤ 5% total CV and ≤ 3% bias). Furthermore, the developed method was applied to evaluate immunoassays through 41 patient sample comparisons. The calibration and measurement capability (CMC) of this method were also evaluated by measuring these samples. The candidate RMP can serve as an accurate reference baseline for routine methods and can be used for value assignment for reference materials. Selected ion chromatograms by LC-MS/MS using a C18 column for aldosterone and its structural analogues.