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Contamination Control Scorecard (CCS): Scoring Template and Calculation Tool for Micro- and Nanoplastics Research
Summary
Researchers developed the Contamination Control Scorecard (CCS), a standardized diagnostic framework and spreadsheet tool that enables micro- and nanoplastics researchers to calculate Process Control Scores and Transparency Scores to systematically document contamination-control practices and identify workflow vulnerability points.
This record provides the scoring template and calculation tool for the Contamination Control Scorecard (CCS), a diagnostic framework introduced to support contamination-aware micro- and nanoplastics (MNP) research. The spreadsheet enables transparent calculation of Process Control Scores (PCS), Transparency Scores (TS), and overall CCS values based on reported contamination-control practices and disclosure. The CCS is designed to help researchers systematically document contamination-control measures, identify workflow-specific vulnerability points, and support contamination-aware interpretation of analytical results. It is not intended to eliminate contamination, rank studies, or serve as a benchmarking tool. Rather, the CCS provides a structured, adaptable approach for tracking and reporting contamination risks across analytical workflows. This version (v1.0) reflects the framework as described in the associated Perspective article and is intended for use as a reporting and self-assessment aid. Indicator weights and scoring logic are transparent and may be adapted where scientifically justified. Future versions may incorporate refinements based on interlaboratory use, expanded datasets, and community feedback.
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