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Elemental analysis of a single-wall carbon nanotube candidate reference material
R Zeisler1, R L Paul, R Oflaz Spatz
1Analytical Chemistry Division, National Institute for Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-8395, USA. rolf.zeisler@nist.gov
Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry
|October 19, 2010
Summary
This study details the characterization of a new Standard Reference Material (SRM 2483) containing single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). Neutron activation analysis and ICP-MS confirmed elemental composition, ensuring accurate material traceability.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Analytical Chemistry
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Standard Reference Materials (SRMs) are crucial for accurate scientific measurements.
- Characterization of complex nanomaterials like single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) presents unique analytical challenges.
- NIST developed SRM 2483 to provide a reliable standard for carbon nanotube soot analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the elemental composition of a candidate Standard Reference Material (SRM 2483) for carbon nanotube soot.
- To determine the mass fraction of catalyst residues and trace elements within the material.
- To validate analytical methods for the accurate quantification of components in SWCNT-based materials.
Main Methods:
- Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA) was employed to determine elemental composition and catalyst residues.
- Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) was used for trace element analysis, including rare earth elements.
- Independent analytical procedures using NAA and ICP-MS were cross-validated.
Main Results:
- High agreement was observed between results obtained from NAA and ICP-MS procedures.
- Measured values for the candidate SRM showed good agreement with certified values of included reference materials.
- Mass fraction values for catalyst and trace elements were successfully assigned to the candidate SRM 2483.
Conclusions:
- The developed analytical methods are suitable for characterizing SWCNT materials.
- SRM 2483 is validated as a reliable standard for elemental analysis of carbon nanotube soot.
- This work supports accurate quantification and comparability in nanotechnology research and industry.
