ISSN:
1432-1130
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Chemistry and Pharmacology
Notes:
Abstract Precise concentrations of Zr, Y and Nb in the μg/g to ng/g range have been determined in rock samples using multi-ion counting spark-source mass spectrometry (MIC-SSMS). A high resolution method, combined with interference correction on 91Zr and 93Nb for low concentration samples, was applied. An analytical precision of 2–5% for concentrations down to 0.020 μg/g and 10% for lower concentrations was attained. The detection limit is below 0.005 μg/g. By measuring international reference materials, the accuracy of the method was determined to be within about 10% of the recommended values. However, the accuracy of the final concentration is influenced by interference corrections, but the additional error is below 20%. The interference problem is most difficult for Al-rich samples (〉15% Al2O3), as the interfering molecules are 40Ca27Al12C2 + and 27Al3 12C+. The accordance between ICP-MS and MIC-SSMS results is worse for low Nb concentrations in the ng/g range. Here, ICP-MS gives systematically lower values than MIC-SSMS. The reason for this discrepancy is not yet clear, but may be caused by Nb loss during chemical treatment of the samples prior to ICP-MS measurements.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s002160051353
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