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Updated: Mar 25, 2026

Author Spotlight: Technologies and Challenges in Elemental Analysis of Food Samples
Published on: December 22, 2023
Mercury determination with ICP-MS: signal suppression by acids
L Jian1, W Goessler, K J Irgolic
1Institute for Analytical Chemistry, Karl-Franzens-University Graz, Austria.
Accurate mercury quantification using ICP-MS requires matching nitric acid concentrations between calibration standards and samples. Mathematical correction or standard addition methods ensure reliable results when acid concentrations differ, crucial for trace element analysis.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Environmental Science
- Materials Science
Background:
- ICP-MS quantification of mercury in digested reference materials often yields inaccurate low results.
- Standard explanations like sorption or memory effects do not account for these discrepancies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cause of low mercury readings in ICP-MS analysis.
- To identify reliable methods for accurate mercury quantification in digested samples.
Main Methods:
- Investigated the impact of nitric acid concentration on mercury signal intensity in ICP-MS.
- Compared external calibration, standard addition, and mathematical correction methods.
- Analyzed certified reference material (SRM GBW-90101) for mercury content.
Main Results:
- Mercury signal intensity is highly dependent on nitric acid concentration.
- Accurate mercury quantification was achieved by matching acid concentrations in calibration and sample solutions.
- Mathematical correction based on a pre-established function and standard addition method also provided accurate results.
Conclusions:
- Nitric acid concentration is a critical factor affecting mercury quantification by ICP-MS.
- Mathematical correction is recommended for routine, high-throughput mercury analysis.
- Standard addition is a practical alternative for occasional mercury determinations.
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