What is the name of the flexible plastic sample container used in field applications for collection of chemical and radiological potable water analysis?

• A. Jerrican
• B. Bottle
• C. Cubitainer
• D. Bag-in-box

Answer: (C)

In field sampling for chemical and radiological potable water analyses, a container that is lightweight, flexible, and designed to minimize changes in the sample during transport is key. A cubitainer fits this need because it uses a flexible plastic bag inside a protective outer container. As you fill it, the bag expands and the air headspace is minimized, which helps prevent loss of volatile components and reduces contamination or interaction with the container walls. The interior material is chosen for compatibility with a wide range of analytes, making it suitable for both chemical and radiological testing, and the outer shell provides durability for field use.

Other options are less ideal in this context. A jerrican is bulky and rigid, making field handling and transport harder and increasing the risk of interactions with the sample. A bottle is also rigid and can be more susceptible to breakage or surface contact that might affect results. Bag-in-box is more of a packaging format rather than a dedicated sampling container and may not meet the stringent integrity requirements for potable water radiological analyses.