RMS Foundation
Bischmattstrasse 12
2544 Bettlach
Switzerland
Phone +41 32 644 2000
METHODS
Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP‑MS)
ICP-MS is a very sensitive method with a wide range of applications in inorganic elemental analysis. In a plasma, the previously dissolved sample is ionized at extremely high temperatures so that atoms and ions are formed. These ions are then separated and quantified in a mass spectrometer according to their mass-to-charge ratio. ICP-MS is characterized by very high sensitivity and accuracy and can detect extremely low concentrations of metals and other elements in liquids or solids. It enables the simultaneous quantification of most elements of the periodic table in the ultra-trace range. This means that concentrations in the ppb (parts per billion; ng/mL) or even sub-ppb range can be quantified.
According to which standards do we test?
Whenever possible, we carry out our testing services in accordance with or based on these international standards:
- ISO 17294-2
- ISO 10993
- ISO 13175-3
- ASTM F1088
- ASTM F1185
- ASTM F1581
Which devices do we use?
- Agilent 7700x ICP-MS
For which material tests do we use this method?
We use inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) for the following material tests, among others:
- Element composition in alloys
- Trace element determination in metals or alloys
- Leachable & extractable testing of (medical) products
- Cleaning validations
- Cleanliness check
- Identification and quantification of ceramic solution products
- Trace element analysis of calcium phosphates
- Elementary impurities in process and waste water
What you should know about this method?
For which materials is the method suitable?
- Aqueous solutions
- Waste water + process water
- Metals and alloys (dissolved using strong acids)
- Ceramics (dissolved using strong acids)
- Plastics (aqueous extracts)
Which materials can be analyzed quantitatively?
- All materials must either be present in or transformed into an aqueous solution (e.g., by dissolution or extraction).
- The method is limited to measuring cations (positively charged ions), allowing analysis of nearly all elements in the periodic table.
- Highly electronegative elements (e.g., halogens), sulfur, and noble gases cannot be measured.
How much sample material is required?
- approx. 0.5 - 1 g for solids
- approx. 50 mL for liquids
(smaller quantities may be possible)
Are the methods accredited?
- Yes, the quantification of measurable elements in aqueous solution is valiated and accredited.
- If the sample material or sample preparation is expected to have a significant influence on the measurement uncertainty, this can be revalidated with some additional effort.
