ICP-MS Testing Service, ICP-MS Analytical Service

Overview

MSE Analytical Services offer professional ICP-MS Testing Service for fast identification and detection of trace metals content in chemical samples.

Our ICP-MS Testing/Analytical Service offers accurate and precise results, ideal for a range of laboratory and research applications. Delivering fast and reliable results with a low detection limit, our service is ideal for elemental quantitation using a cutting-edge ICP-MS machine.

Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectroscopy (ICP-MS) is capable of detecting metals at very low concentrations, as low as 1 ppq (one part per quadrillion). An ICP-MS unit ionizes the sample using inductively coupled plasma. Plasma in this case is created by heating argon gas to 10,000°C causing the argon gas to increase in its electrical conductive properties and eventually transforming the argon from a gas state into the plasma state. Once ionized the molecules that make up the sample are separated based on it mass-to-charge ratio and quantified using a mass spectrometer.

Full Scan:

Our ICP Full Scan includes the analysis of the following elements: Ag, Al, As, B, Ba, Be, Bi, Ca, Cd, Ce, Co, Cr, Cs, Cu, Fe, Ga, Gd, Hg, K, La, Li, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, Nb, Ni, Pb, Rb, Sb, Sc, Se, Si, Sn, Sr, Te, Th, Ti, Tl, U, V, W, Y, Zn, Zr.

The full-element analysis is applicable for qualitative identification of unknown samples and semi-quantitative determination of corresponding element contents. This analysis is conducted using a multi-element standard solution scanning method.

If testing of elements beyond the standard solution is required, additional charges will apply based on the number of elements requested.

Sample requirements

Pre-treated Solution Samples:

• a. Transparent and Clear Solution: The solution must be stable with no precipitate. For colored solutions, confirm whether they are ionic solutions; if unsure, perform acid treatment before analysis to avoid damaging the instrument. Provide 5-10 ml of sample, preferably neutral to slightly acidic, with an acid concentration below 5%. Solutions containing hydrofluoric acid (HF) cannot be tested directly—ensure F ions are fully evaporated, and pre-digested samples must be diluted.
• b. Organic Solutions: Carbon-containing solutions cannot be tested directly and must be digested with nitric acid to eliminate carbon.
• c. Free of Impurities: Samples must not contain any insoluble impurities or organic matter. It is recommended to filter the solution through a 0.45 μm membrane. Secure the container lid tightly and seal it with parafilm to prevent leakage.

Untreated Liquid Samples:

• a. Routine Water Samples: Provide at least 50 ml. For custom or other liquid samples, provide at least 10 ml and label the sample composition to aid in selecting the appropriate digestion method.
• b. Secure the container: Ensure the container lid is tightly closed and sealed with parafilm to prevent leakage.

Untreated Solid Samples:

• a. Powder Samples: Provide at least 100 mg of sample, pre-ground into a fine powder if possible, and sieved through a 200-mesh sieve if conditions allow. For microwave digestion, provide at least 200 mg.
• b. Limited Quantity Samples: Wrap small quantities of solid samples in weighing paper and place them in a tube.

MSE Supplies offers professional ICP-OES Testing Service using PerkinElmer Optima 5300DV, Optima 8300, ICP 2100 or similar instrument.

Common Questions:

Q1: The test results are not as expected—either too high or too low. Where might the error come from?

Assuming there are no issues in the overall testing process, a certain degree of variation is normal. Every measurement inherently has some uncertainty, so differences between data points are expected. As long as the deviation is not significant, it is considered normal.

If the discrepancy is large, it’s important to analyze the cause from two aspects:

1. Testing-related factors: The testing party should assess whether any procedural errors might have introduced deviations, such as uneven sampling, unsuitable digestion methods, or excessively high dilution ratios.

2. Sample-related factors: Analyze whether the sample itself is problematic—e.g., whether it is heterogeneous, hygroscopic (moisture-absorbing), prone to water loss, or susceptible to oxidation, all of which can alter its physical or chemical properties.

For solid samples, test results are often lower than expected due to moisture absorption or incomplete drying, which lowers the measured mass fraction. Please ensure the sample is properly pre-treated before submission.

Q2: What is the detection limit of ICP-OES/MS?

• ICP-OES detection limit: For prepared liquid samples, typically around 0.01–0.02 ppm (mg/L). For diluted liquids or digested powders, the detection limit must be recalculated based on sample mass and final solution volume. It may vary by sample.

• ICP-MS detection limit: Also sample-dependent. Varies by element and method, but typically around 1 ppb, within the 2–255 amu (atomic mass unit) range.

Q3: If a sample contains elements at both high and low concentrations, how should it be prepared?

If multiple elements are to be tested from a single sample and their concentrations vary significantly, it’s recommended to prepare separate solutions:

• Use ICP-OES for elements at ppm levels

• Use ICP-MS for elements at ppb levels

• You may also send the original (undiluted) solution and let the lab perform separate dilutions

• It's acceptable to place separate orders for different concentration groups from the same sample

Q4: Why must digested samples be free of organics, solid residues, fluoride ions, etc.?

• Organic matter and solid residues may clog the instrument’s sample introduction system, causing malfunctions or damage.

• Fluoride ions and alkaline substances can corrode internal components of the instrument, leading to failure and costly repairs.

• These interferences can also result in significant measurement errors.

Q5: Which elements are more prone to errors in ICP testing?

1. Elements with strong memory effects: e.g., Hg (mercury), Ag (silver), B (boron)

2. Elements difficult to digest: e.g., Ta, Nb, Ru, Rh, Ce, Zr, Hf, Os

3. Si (Silicon): Susceptible to errors both during digestion and instrumental analysis

4. Common environmental elements: e.g., Ca, K, Na, Mg, Fe, Al — these may interfere with trace element detection

5. Elements with weak emission signals (leading to inaccurate results at low concentrations): e.g., As, Se, S, P, Te, Cs

Analytical Service Minimum order requirement: $250 per order. A $200 handling fee will be applied if order is below $250.

Highlights: High Quality Data, Competitive Pricing, Technical Support by Scientists.