ICP MS Sample Preparation | Lab Time with Anton Paar

Learn that ICP-MS instruments require liquid samples rather than solids, and that solid samples from various sources (food, pharmaceuticals, polymers, metals, minerals) must be dissolved into clear, particle-free solutions before analysis.

Select acid digestion as the primary sample preparation technique and understand the chemistry: nitric acid oxidizes organic matter to release trace elements into solution, while inorganic samples typically require acid mixtures to dissolve both trace and main components.

Determine whether your sample is organic or inorganic, then choose the appropriate acid(s): use nitric acid (1 ml per 100 mg sample) for organics, and consider supplementary acids like hydrofluoric, hydrochloric, or perchloric acid depending on sample composition and analytes of interest.

Ensure solid samples are ground to the smallest possible particle size as powders digest more easily, then heat the acid-sample mixture in a closed vessel to temperatures between 200-280°C depending on sample type, using specialized digestion instruments that can withstand pressures up to 200 bar.

Set appropriate sample weight (100-300 mg initially) and a gradual heating ramp (20-40 minutes to target temperature) to prevent explosive reactions from highly reactive samples, ensuring safe and complete digestion without pressure buildup.

Use the instrument's built-in method library or the free online method library by entering your sample type to obtain preset digestion parameters including sample weight, acid mixture, and temperature-time programs that ensure successful ICP-MS analysis.