September 30, 2025

Importance of Sample Handling and Preparation for Surface Analysis: A Summary of ISO Standard 20579 Part 1, Documenting and Reporting the Handling of Specimens Prior to Analysis

Key Points

Reliable surface analysis relies heavily on proper sample handling and preparation, affecting validity.
ISO standard 20579 outlines key information to document and report during specimen handling processes.
Adequate reporting of sample handling procedures is essential for reproducibility in surface analysis results.
Checklist elements from the standard guide practitioners in collecting and recording necessary sample details.

Abstract

ABSTRACT Reliable and reproducible analysis of surfaces is critically dependent on how samples have been collected, handled, and prepared before analysis. Although there are important, well‐established general guidelines to minimize unintended alteration of the surfaces to be analyzed, specific handling steps depend on the nature of the samples and information desired. Assessments of the validity and reliability of the results require adequate information about sampling, handling, and processing. ISO standard 20579 part 1 describes the information to be recorded and reported for samples that are prepared or submitted for surface analysis. This paper summarizes elements of the standard, which includes annexes that justify and inform the sample handling processes. Also included is a checklist of information that needs to be recorded and reported and an appendix containing an example of a form that might be used to report the information.

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