On 14-Apr-04 the proficiency test Benzene and Toluene started with 23 participants out of 14 different countries.

On that date the samples (1liter Benzene + 1 liter Toluene) were despatched to the laboratories. Enclosed to the samples were the instructions to the participants for this proficiency test and forms for the reporting of the analysis results and the material safety data sheet (MSDS).

The samples have to be analysed on: Benzene: Acid Wash Colour, Acidity, Appearance, Bromine Index, Copper Corrosion, Colour Pt/Co, Density, Distillation, Total Chlorine, H2S/SO2, Solidification point, Toluene, Non-aromatics and Purity.Toluene: Acid Wash Colour, Appearance, Copper Corrosion, Colour Pt/Co, Density, Distillation, Non-aromatics and Purity .

The deadline for reporting results is set on 12-May-04. A laboratory that sends in results after deadline will definitely will not get direct feedback in case any of its results are suspect ! So be in good time to get the most out of this proficiency test.