Assessment and Replication of Surface Analysis Results Require Knowing How a Sample Was Handled: Summary of ISO Standard 20579 Part 2, Documenting and Reporting the Preparation and Mounting of Specimens for Analysis

Documentation of sample handling and preparation methods at every step prior to and during surface analysis is critical to the reliability and reproducibility of surface analysis data. Yet, these data are often not adequately reported in the literature and may not be documented at all. General guidelines for proper sample handling are available, but specifics depend on the specific samples and the analysis objectives. ISO Standard 20579‐2 describes information to be recorded by the analyst for samples undergoing surface analysis and includes informative annexes that justify and inform sample handling methods and processes. This paper summarizes the reporting requirements set forth in ISO 20579‐2 and includes a checklist and an example reporting template that might be used for reporting the information. An Excel version of the template is available as Supporting Information for adaptation as appropriate for specific samples or laboratories.