Elemental analysis
ICP-MS Trace Element Analysis
ICP-MS measures many elements at trace and ultra-trace concentration after suitable sample preparation and digestion.
Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry ionizes a prepared solution in a plasma and separates ions by mass-to-charge ratio. RNDgrid coordinates analyte lists, expected ranges, matrix, digestion, dilution, blanks, standards, and reporting limits with qualified partner laboratories. Method selection must match the sample and intended regulatory or research use.
When this method is useful
- Water, environmental samples, digested solids, chemicals, biological matrices, pharmaceuticals, and high-purity materials
- Trace metals, impurity profiling, multi-element screening, and comparative concentration studies
- Projects requiring lower detection limits than many routine optical or X-ray methods
What the report can include
- Element concentrations with units and stated preparation basis
- Calibration, blank, detection or reporting-limit information according to agreed scope
- Optional recovery, duplicate, spike, or reference-material quality-control data
Sample preparation and scoping
- Provide the full matrix, expected analytes and concentration range, sample amount, and required reporting basis.
- Digestion chemistry must dissolve relevant material without contamination or analyte loss.
- Use clean compatible containers and preservation for low-level work.
Limitations to consider
- Spectral and matrix interferences require method controls and sometimes collision/reaction-cell conditions.
- A poor or incomplete digestion can produce falsely low results.
- Regulatory reporting requires a validated method, documented quality control, and appropriate accreditation scope.
Capabilities, detection limits, accreditation scope, and turnaround vary by method and partner laboratory. Confirm the final scope in the quotation before sending samples.
Questions to answer before booking
- Which elements, expected range, units, and detection limits are required?
- Is the sample already a solution, or is validated digestion needed?
- Is the work exploratory, quality-control, publication, or regulatory?
Related methods
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