Homogenization, of soil samples

An example of adequate sample homogenization is given in Table 4. The experiment was conducted with two replicate treated soil samples. Each replicate was analyzed in duplicate. Three different sample aliquots (2, 5 and 10 g) were used from each replicate. Analyses of controls and fortified samples were also conducted concurrently with treated samples to evaluate method performance (i.e., extraction recoveries). These results show that residue values are the same regardless of sample size. Thus, thorough homogenization of soil samples coupled with mgged analytical methodology provides for satisfactory residue analysis. 

Forensic soil examination can be complex because of the diversity and in-homogeneity of soil samples. However, such diversity and complexity enables forensic examiners to distinguish between soil samples, which may appear to be similar. 

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