Interlab

Interlaboratory Exercise of the BlueWWater Project

The BlueWWater interlaboratory exercise is an initiative aimed at serving as a tool to evaluate and validate the analytical methods used by laboratories to detect emerging contaminants in wastewater and surface water. It is designed to help participants improve their techniques, identify areas for improvement, and strengthen confidence in their results.

Objective of the Exercise

Conducted in accordance with the guidelines of ISO 13528:2022 and the International Harmonized Protocol for Proficiency Testing of Analytical Chemistry Laboratories by IUPAC, the exercise aims to determine certain pharmaceutical and cosmetic substances in wastewater and receiving water bodies. These substances, even at very low concentrations, may pose risks to the environment and public health. Through this exercise, we aim to provide laboratories with the necessary tools to comply with the new requirements established by the Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive (UWWTD).

Compounds

Substances listed in Annex I, Part C, Table 3 of the UWWTD

Category 1 (substances that can be easily treated):

• Amisulpride
• Carbamazepine
• Citalopram
• Clarithromycin
• Diclofenac
• Hydrochlorothiazide
• Metoprolol
• Venlafaxine

Category 2 (substances that can be easily removed):

• Benzotriazole
• Candesartan
• Irbesartan
• Mixture of 4-methylbenzotriazole and 6-methylbenzotriazole

Matrices

• Water from wastewater treatment plants (WWTP): influent and effluent
• Surface water from the receiving environment: river water and coastal water

Dates

• Sample distribution to participants: May 2025
• Sample analysis period: June to November 2025
• Report on participation results: February 2026

Participation and Requirements

Registration for the exercise is open and free of charge, but places are limited. Interested laboratories must commit to analyse the samples and submit their results within the established deadlines. Participation in this exercise provides a valuable opportunity to validate analytical methods, improve result quality, and collaborate with other laboratories in developing better practices.

Participant Commitment

By registering, participants commit to:

• Analyzing the samples according to the provided instructions.
• Submitting results within the established timeframe.
• Actively collaborating to ensure the proper development of the exercise, contributing to the common goal of improving analysis quality and strengthening the reliability of the methods used.

Benefits for Participants

Participating in the BlueWWater interlaboratory exercise will enable laboratories to:

• Validate their analytical methods: By comparing their results with those of other laboratories.
• Identify areas for improvement: By detecting potential weaknesses in their procedures and methods.
• Strengthen confidence in their results: By increasing the reliability and quality of their analyses.

Registration

To participate, please complete the registration form by clicking here.

Contact

For more information, contact interlaboratorio@intecmar.gal