Sample Preparation - Analysis of sediment samples for Cs
We are planning to analyze some sediment samples for Cs, and specifically we wonder if an HF digestion will be required or if aqua-regia would be sufficient.
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admin
Total posts: 529
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In regards to your question about digestion, I would prefer just nitric and then compare the results to a nitric/HF digestion. The EPA Methods 3050B and 3052 (acid digestion methods designed for sediments, sludge, and soils) could be your guide. The 3050B uses nitric acid and hydrogen peroxide and 3052 uses nitric and HF in combination. The 3052 is considered a total method as compared to 3050B which gets 'extractables.'As for performing the analyses, we are assuming that you are using ICP-MS as the measurement tool. If the dissolved solids content is high, dilute the sample such that it is < or = 100 ppm total dissolved solids to minimize the quenching effect on the Cs signal. We would suggest Rh as the internal standard since one of the Rare Earths could realistically be present in a sediment sample (they are not as rare as we would like to think). The main concern is the MO+ interference from Sn, which, if present may be a problem.
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