3.2.3 equivalent analyte concentration, n—the apparent
concentration of an interfering element on an analyte.
3.2.4 linear dynamic range, n—the concentration range
from the limit of quantification to the highest concentration that
remains within 610 % of linearity based on lower concentra-
tions.
3.2.5 limit of quantification (LOQ), n—the lowest concen-
tration at which the instrument can measure reliably with a
defined error and confidence level.
3.2.6 sensitivity, n—the slope of the calibration curve, which
is the ratio of the change in emission intensity to the change in
concentration.
4. Summary of Guide
4.1 DCP-AES’s, either simultaneous or sequential, measure
the concentration of elements in solution. Solutions are nebu-
lized and the aerosol is transported to the direct current plasma
jet where excitation occurs and characteristic emission spectra
are produced. The spectra are dispersed by an echelle grating
and cross-dispersed by a prism or grating. The spectra then
impinge on photomultiplier tubes, whose outputs are inter-
preted by a computer as emission intensities. Background
correction can be used to compensate for some interferences.
The computer generates calibration curves and calculates
analyte concentration.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 Analyses using DCP-AES require proper preparation of
test solutions, accurate calibration, and control of analytical
procedures. E01 test methods that refer to this guide shall
provide specifics on test solutions, calibration, and procedures.
5.2 DCP-AES analysis is primarily concerned with testing
materials for compliance with specifications, but may range
from qualitative estimations to umpire analysis. These may
involve measuring major and minor constituents or trace
impurities, or both. This guide suggests some approaches to
these different analytical needs.
5.3 This guide assists users in developing new methods.
5.4 It is assumed that the users of this guide will be trained
analysts capable of performing common laboratory procedures
skillfully and safely. It is expected that the work will be
performed in a properly equipped laboratory.
5.5 This guide does not purport to define all of the quality
assurance parameters necessary for DCP-AES analysis. Users
should ensure that proper quality assurance procedures are
followed, especially those defined by the test method. Refer to
Guide E882.
6. Preparation of Solutions
6.1 Solutions are prepared for different purposes. Not all
may be necessary for every test. Prepare only those directed by
the method or required to meet specific experimental objec-
tives.
6.2 Rinse Solution—Prepare a rinse solution to contain the
acids or bases present in the test solution at the same
concentration. Prepare a quantity sufficient to clean the end of
the sample uptake tubing and to flush the sample introduction
system between each determination of calibration solutions and
test solutions. Occasionally, an analyte requires a conditioning
time in the aspiration/nebulization system of the instrument.
For this, use the test solution as a rinse and allow a sufficient
residence time before taking a reading.
6.3 Reagent Blank Solution—This solution consists of all
reagents and other additions at the same concentration used in
preparing the test solution. Carry this solution through the
entire sample preparation procedure.
6.4 Matrix Blank Solution—Prepare this solution to be as
close in composition to the test solution as possible (including
dissolution reagents and matrix elements), but omitting the
elements to be determined. The matrix elements should be of
high purity.
6.5 Control—Select a reference material or other material of
known composition and prepare it as directed in the test
method. Analyze the control regularly as a blind sample and
use the results for quality control as directed in Guide E882.
6.6 Calibration Solutions—The number and type of these
solutions will depend on the method, and on the type of
DCP-AES instrument and its computer. Generally, prepare two
instrument calibration solutions, one high concentration, and
one low concentration or a blank, that bracket the expected
concentration range of the sample test solutions. More may be
prepared if the computer can utilize them, especially if the
analyte composition of the test solutions is expected to cover a
wide range or if the calibration curve is non-linear. Prepare the
calibration solutions by adding aliquots from stock solutions to
solutions that are similar to the matrix of the test sample.
6.6.1 Match the matrix of the calibration solutions as
closely as possible to that of the test solution in acidity, total
solids, reagents, and matrix elements, especially if easily
ionized elements are present. Some matrix elements may be
eliminated if it can be shown by spike addition or standard
additions that the effect on the test solution analytes is
insignificant. Use stock solutions or pure elements prepared by
a method similar to that used to prepare the test solutions. If the
composition of the test solution is unknown to the extent that
matrix-matched solutions cannot be prepared, or if a suffi-
ciently pure matrix material is not available, refer to the
method of standard additions described in 6.7 and 10.6.
6.6.1.1 If the instrument is designed to use a blank as the
low concentration calibration solution, prepare it the same way
as the high concentration calibration solution, omitting the
elements to be determined. Where matrix-matched calibration
solutions are employed, this will be the matrix blank solution.
6.6.2 Optimum Calibration Solution Concentration
Range—For calibration in the linear range, the highest concen-
tration should be no more than 85 % of the upper limit of the
calibration curve linearity. For an instrument that accepts a low
concentration calibration solution, its concentration should be
at least four times the MDL and above the LOQ.
6.7 Standard Additions Solutions—Prepare as directed in
either 6.7.1 or 6.7.2 as follows:
6.7.1 Prepare four separate test solutions of the sample. To
all but one, add known amounts of the analyte equal to (0.5,
E1097 − 25
2