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Sample Preparation

A Guide for New ICP Users: ICP-MS operations

Solution Quadrupole ICP-MS

Advantages:
  • Rapid Quantitative & Semiquantitative analysis of trace elements (6Li to 238U)
  • Multi-Element Technique
  • Small Samples (< 100 mg)
  • High Sensitivity
  • Excellent Precision & Accuracy
  • Reaction Cell Option
Disadvantages
  • Destructive Technique
  • Sample Homogenization
  • Sample Preparation
  • Spectral Interferences (many circumvented with Collision Cell)
Solution ICP-MS analysis requires the introduction of dilute solutions with total dissolved solids (TDS) less than 0.1%. All solutions must be filtered and free of particulates. Solutions should be diluted with 2-3% nitric acid. Method blanks should always be included in submitted sample set.

For plant and soil digestions and extracts in preparation for Quadrupole ICP-MS analysis, we recommend that you contact ANR Analytical Laboratory (http://groups.ucanr.org/danranlab/) located at UC Davis.

Silicate rocks are dissolved by acid digestion. We will dissolve small sample batches of pre-powdered silicate rocks upon request. Please email or call for more information.

Silicate Rock Standards:
Tables 1 and 2 show analytical results by ICP-MS 7500a for two basalts, BHVO-1 and BCR-1, which are geochemical reference standards prepared by the U.S. Geological Survey.

We are available for consultation regarding methodology and data reduction

Laser Ablation (LA) ICP-MS

Advantages:

  • Rapid quantitative & semi-quantitative trace element analysis
  • Easy sample preparation
  • Small sampling area (~100- 5 µm)
  • Non-destructive
  • Real-time data reduction (with Glitter software)
Disadvantages
  • Spectral Interferences (many circumvented with the collision cell)
  • Standards need to be well-matched to unknowns
Laser ablation analyses can be performed on polished thin sections (2 in x 1 in) that are at least 30 micrometers thick. Alternatively, samples can be prepared as 1” rounds.

LA Standards:
Standardization for laser ablation include materials from both the U.S. Geological Survey and the National Institute of Standards and Technology.


MC- ICP-MS

Please contact us at icplab@ucdavis if you have any questions.

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