Chromatography Forum

Hi

The use of a carbon source in the sample prep has been demonstrated to improve signal for elements such as Se and As in ICP-MS analysis. Various sources of carbon as additives have been used such isopropanol, n-butanol or methanol at 2-3% v/v. Do members have a preferred additive and any pros/cons of the above mentioned additives.

Thanks.

We use methanol for our arsenic analysis - I can't recall if it was utilized instead of other carbon sources for any other reason than it was handy on the shelf but its use was necessary for accurate results in our case, not just as an improvement.