Page 13 - Analityka 1/2015

The Detection limit

PART I

The detection limit (LOD) is an important parameter in the validation process. Estimation
of this parameter is especially important when trace and ultra-trace quantities of analyte
are to be detected. When the apparatus response from the analyte is below the detection
limit, it does not necessarily mean that the analyte is not present in the sample. It may be
a message that the analyte concentration could be below the detection capabilities of the
instrument or analytical method. By using a more sensitive detector or a different ana-
lytical method it is possible to quantitatively determine the analyte in a given sample. A
series of articles which are going to be published in the next issues of „Analityka” will deal
with: 1) a possibility of detection in an analytical method; 2) LOD history and 3) trends in
approaches to detection limit estimation.