2.3.2. Sample preparation of process streams for laboratory analysis
Sample preparation of the process streams for their laboratory analysis was done according to EN 15443. The purpose here was to reduce the original size (mass) of combined samples of process streams (see Table 1) to a laboratory test portion size (mass) by not changing its original composition during each step of sample preparation. Sample preparation of the combined samples of process streams for their laboratory analysis was done in two stages; sample preparation before sending samples to laboratory and sample preparation in the laboratory.
3.2.1. Sample preparation before sending samples to laboratory
As per EN 15443 two basic methods were applied at every step of sample preparation,
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Particle size reduction.
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Sample division (mass reduction).
Aim of particle size reduction was to reduce the nominal top size (D95) of combined samples of process streams to reduce the sample mass size without losing the representativeness of original samples. Particle size reduction of combined samples of process streams was done by using shredder and sieves of various mesh sizes. Nominal top size (D95) of each stream was reduced to 30 mm. Stream of fine fraction was not further shredded as it was already having D95 of