Induction-Coupled Plasma Determination of Ag, Au, Bi, Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn in Geologic Materials Using a Selective Extraction Technique—Preliminary Investigation

Abstract

The expanding need for multielement analysis at submicrogram levels in geologic materials has prompted an increased interest in inductively coupled plasma spectrometry. No other analytical procedure simultaneously exhibits, to the same degree, the operating characteristics of excellent precision and accuracy, low limits of detection, dynamic concentration ranges in addition to eliminating or at least reducing, interelemental and matrix effects. The experimental and operating parameters are described for the analyses of trace metals found in the organic phase following a rapid and efficient extraction technique. Direct spectral interferences, matrix and interelemental effects caused by major elements in geologic materials are effectively eliminated and sensitivity is increased by concentrating the trace metals in the organic phase. Aluminum, calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, manganese, and sodium are among the major elements eliminated; and trace elements (Ag, Au, Bi, Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn) critical to a mineral evaluation, some of which have insufficient detection limits by plasma analyses, are enhanced to a more precise detection level.