Estimating the uncertainty from sampling in pollution crime investigation: The importance of metrology in the forensic interpretation of environmental data.

摘要: The forensic interpretation of environmental analytical data is usually challenging due to the high geospatial variability these data. measurements' uncertainty includes contributions from sampling and sample handling preparation processes. These are often disregarded in techniques results' quality assurance. A pollution crime investigation case was used carry out a methodology able address uncertainties two different compartments, freshwater sediments landfill leachate. estimate duplicate method (that replicates predefined steps measurement procedure order assess its precision) parameters investigate were metals (Cr, Cu, Ni, Zn) leachate, suspect source, sediment, possible sink. metal analysis results compared statutory limits it demonstrated that Cr Ni concentrations sediment samples exceeded threshold levels at all sites downstream sources, considering expanded U measurements probability contamination >0.975, most sites. Cu Zn above sites, but classification inconclusive measurements. Metal analyses leachate revealed with >0.975 ponds while below 0.025. estimation uncertainty, which dominant component combined required for comprehensive results, particularly cases.