Cart

Concerns About OsO4 Formation in Multi-element Standards

Hello Dr. Gaines,

I recently bought some individual standards from IV including Os@100ug/mL. I was planning on making an intermediate standard in a 2%HNO3/0.5%HCl acid matrix. This will be a multi-element standard at varying concentrations. I'm concerned about the OsO4formation but I'm wondering if the presence of the other elements along with the 0.5%HCl will minimize this formation.


The other elements will be As @ 0.15 ug/mL Cd @ 0.05 ug/mL Pb @ 0.10 ug/mL Hg @ 0.15 ug/mL Cr @ 2.5 ug/mL Cu @ 25 ug/mL Mn @ 25 ug/mL Mo @ 2.5 ug/mL Ni @ 2.5 ug/mL V @ 2.5 ug/mL Pd @ 1.0 ug/mL Pt @ 1.0 ug/mL Os @ 1.0 ug/mL Rh @ 1.0 ug/mL Ru @ 1.0 ug/mL Ir @ 1.0 ug/mL This will be used for ICP-MS analysis. Specifically the new Heavy Metals Method. The 2%/0.5% solution is what I hope to introduce to the instrument so I suppose the intermediate standard can be made in HCl only?

I do not suggest the addition of any nitric acid.

Os will oxidize to the tetroxide - slowly- and the results by ICP will come out very high because of the volatility of the tetroxide and resulting nebulization efficiency approaching 100%. Only use HCl with Os intermediates.

Serving you in chemistry,

Paul R. Gaines, Ph.D.
CEO of Inorganic Ventures & Fellow Chemist

DISCLAIMER: Advice offered by the chemists at Inorganic Ventures is intended for the individual posing the question. Feel free to contact us to verify whether these suggestions apply to your unique circumstances.