In correcting other's errors, remember you are part of a team. Good supporting data is needed The test had proven not to be robust when Analytical was applying it, and they suspected that it had some deficiencies. Rather than discuss the problem directly with the client, Analytical reviewed all aspects of the polymerization test. Consider all parts of the reaction. Reagents may not be precisely what the users think them to be.
Storage conditions can cause reagents to change with time.
The known sensitivity of polymerization reactions to trace moisture led to analysis of the water content of the solvent. The DMAC was dried over molecular sieve that was efficient but slow in removing trace moisture. However, good reproducibility could be obtained at a specified water level. The conclusion was that excess water would mitigate the cross linking effect of the trifunctional C24. Holding the water constant made the C24 the only variable in the 'end use' test.