ICP / ICP-MS Reference Materials & Sample Preparation
Support reliable trace and ultra-trace elemental analysis with appropriate sample preparation, calibration standards, internal standards and matrix-matched reference materials.
Typical Sample Types for ICP / ICP-MS
The appropriate analytical method depends on the sample matrix, target analytes, concentration range and required accuracy.
Water & Wastewater
For drinking water, wastewater, process water and environmental monitoring.
Soil & Sediment
For environmental, mining and contamination studies requiring digestion before analysis.
Food & Agriculture
For elemental and contaminant analysis in food, feed, plants and agricultural materials.
Pharmaceutical & Chemical
For elemental impurities, raw materials and chemical manufacturing applications.
Metals & Alloys
For dissolved metal samples, plating baths and elemental confirmation after digestion.
Mining & Geological
For ores, concentrates and geological materials after suitable digestion or fusion.
Prepare the Sample for Reliable Measurement
ICP and ICP-MS normally require the analyte to be presented as a clean, representative liquid solution. Sample preparation therefore focuses on digestion, dissolution, dilution, filtration and contamination control.
Representative Sampling
Collect a representative sample and avoid contamination from tools, containers and handling.
Digestion / Dissolution
Use suitable acid digestion, microwave digestion, fusion or dissolution based on the sample matrix.
Dilution / Filtration
Bring the digest into the required concentration range and remove particulates when appropriate.
Blank & QC Preparation
Prepare method blanks, calibration standards, spikes, internal standards and QC samples.
How to Select the Right Reference Material
Reference material selection should follow the real sample matrix, analytes, working range and intended use of the material.
Match the Analytes
Select standards that include the target elements required by the method or application.
Cover the Calibration Range
Use calibration levels that bracket the expected concentration of real samples.
Control the Matrix
Match acid concentration, solvent composition and matrix effects where practical.
Define the Purpose
Separate calibration standards, internal standards, QC standards and matrix CRMs by function.
Reference Material Options
Availability depends on analyte, matrix, concentration range, certification scope and manufacturer portfolio.
Common Standard Types
- Single-element calibration standards
- Multi-element calibration standards
- Internal standards for ICP-MS
- Matrix reference materials
- Environmental and water CRMs
- QC / verification standards
Relevant Manufacturers
Final selection should be based on the exact method, matrix, analyte range and certificate requirements of your laboratory.
Where ICP / ICP-MS Is Commonly Used
Use the application context to define sample preparation, calibration strategy, CRM type and quality-control plan.
Environmental Monitoring
Trace metals in water, wastewater, soil and sediment.
Food & Agriculture
Nutrients, contaminants and trace elements in food and agricultural matrices.
Pharmaceutical
Elemental impurities and raw-material verification.
Mining & Metals
Elemental characterization of digested ores, concentrates and metal samples.
Need Help Selecting the Right CRM for ICP / ICP-MS?
Tell us your instrument, sample matrix, target analytes, concentration range and analytical objective. Alpha Prime Lab will help evaluate the appropriate reference material, sample preparation route and calibration approach.