TABLE OF CONTENTS C.J.Ottley, D.G. Pearson and G.J. Irvine [1]
Dept of Geological Sciences, University of Durham, South Rd, Durham, DH1 3LE, UK
Most modern ICP-MS laboratories have a large group of users with varying analytical experience who require high quality elemental data from a spectrum of geological sample-types at detection limits of sub PPM level in the solid. Meeting these needs with a single, user-friendly, time-efficient preparation and analysis method is a particular challenge. The method presented here has evolved over several years in our laboratory to be as simple as possible whilst incorporating high quality data objectives, aimed specifically for the analysis of igneous mafic rocks. The data presented represents the typical data quality that can be achieved within one week of commencing this type of work by a user with minimal analytical chemistry background. The protocol forms the basis of more challenging analytical work such as the analysis of acidic rocks and mineral separates to which the operator may progress as required. We illustrate the effectiveness of the technique by reviewing the accuracy...
