The determination of several trace elements [arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), molybdenum (Mo), nickel (Ni), and lead (Pb)] in plant samples using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was evaluated. It was established experimentally that moderate amounts (0.2-2%) of dissolved solids decreased the analyte signals significantly. Internal standardization with Rh was efficiently used to compensate for these matrix effects. The accuracy of the method was verified using reference materials digested according to two different procedures: dry ashing and microwave digestion. No significant differences were observed between measured concentrations and certified values. The investigation was next extended for the determination of major elements [aluminum (Al), boron (B), calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), manganese (Mn), sodium (Na), phosphorus (P), and zinc (Zn)] on the same reference materials. The ICP-MS values agree well with the values supplied. However, it appeared that Sc was the most useful internal standard for major elements.
Accuracy profile is a graphical method, which allows to validate an analytical method. It defines a validity of a concentration range for a given accuracy. With this tool, quantitative determinations of macroelements and microelements (Al, Ca, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, P, S, and Zn) in plant samples were evaluated by the use of a wavelength‐dispersive X‐ray fluorescence instrument. The method uses a simple preparation procedure with only drying, grinding, and pressing samples. The measured samples were reference materials with known mineral contents. The calibration procedure was established by employing plant materials issued from interlaboratory studies. Matrix effects were corrected by employing the method of the influence coefficients on the basis of the computerized routine program linked to the equipment. The accuracy profiles of the method show the measurements (trueness and precision) collected under intermediate precision conditions and aim to compute an acceptability interval where a known proportion of future results will be located. The various types of accuracy profile behavior were exemplified. In comparison with an inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry method, the use of X‐ray fluorescence offers a good alternative, faster, and better precision. Inversely, inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry offers an approach well suited for the trueness of measurements with very low matrix effects.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.