Main and tracer elements
Numerous major and trace elements can be detected in water samples. The questions are as broad as the spectrum of elements. Targeted element analyses enable the quality of water to be determined by comparison with limit values, the detection and characterization of contaminated sites, the calculation of water hardness, the determination of the temperature of deep waters, etc. The geochemistry of raw materials, rocks or soils can also be analysed after acid digestion as a whole or specifically for individual components, such as the platinum group elements or elements of the rare earths.
We analyse both major and trace element contents in water samples and various fluids (thermal waters, outcrops, leachates). The element spectrum depends on the sample matrix and your question.
We will be pleased to advise you in order to determine the appropriate analysis for your investigations.
Multielement methods
|
Method |
Element spectrum |
Instrument |
|
ICP-MS |
main elements (Na, K, Ca, Mg) div. trace elements (e.g. Al, Au, Ag, As, B, Be, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Li, Mn, Mo, Pb, P, Rb, Zn, U) PGEs, SEE ng/L to mg/L, ppt to ppm (depending on matrix/element) |
iCAP RQ, |
|
ICP-OES |
Major elements (Na, K, Ca, Mg) Selected trace elements (e.g. Ba, Fe, Mn, S, Si, Sr) also suitable for salt-heavy samples µg /L to mg/L, ppb to ppm (depending on matrix/element) |
Varian 715ES (radial) |
Single element methods
|
Methods |
Element spectrum |
Device |
|
AAS (flame) |
Single elements especially Na, K, Ca, Mg mg/L, ppm - range |
AAnalyst 200, |
|
AAS (graphite furnace) |
Single elements e.g. Pb, Cd, Mn, As, Se µg/L, ppb - range |
AAnalyst 600, Perkin Elmer |
|
AAS (hydride, FIAS) |
Se, As µg/L, ppb - range |
FIMS 400, coupled with |