TRM - Bi, Ge, In, 6Li, Sc, Tb, Y - Aqueous calibration solution ASTASOL® ASTASOL® INT-MIX3

Significance of the topic

This identification sheet for a multi-element calibration solution addresses a critical need in analytical chemistry for reliable, traceable standards. Accurate calibration is essential for quantitative measurements in environmental analysis, quality control, biomedical research, and industrial monitoring.

Objectives and study overview

The document defines the composition, certification process, and recommended handling of ASTASOL® INT-MIX3, an aqueous reference material containing Bi, Ge, In, 6Li, Sc, Tb, and Y. It aims to provide end users with detailed information on concentration values, uncertainty, traceability, and proper storage conditions.

Methodology and instrumentation

The solution was prepared gravimetrically from high-purity primary compounds in a 5% HNO₃ matrix with trace HF, using sub-boiled acid and ultrapure water. Concentrations were assigned based on an unbroken calibration chain involving certified reference materials (CRMs AN 9008(1N), AN 9022(1FN), AN 9026(1N), AN 9030(1N), AN 9052(1N), AN 9058(1N), AN 9067(1N)), traceable to NIST SRMs. Characterization employed atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), atomic emission spectroscopy (AES), inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), and ICP mass spectrometry (ICP-MS).

Main results and discussion

• Assigned concentration for all analytes: 10.00 mg/L with an expanded uncertainty (k=2) of ±0.05 mg/L at 20 °C.
• Total trace impurities are below 0.02 mg/L, ensuring high purity for calibration.
• Homogeneity tests confirmed uniform distribution of analytes; stability studies guarantee shelf life up to two years when stored at 5–30 °C.

Practical benefits and applications

ASTASOL® INT-MIX3 serves as a versatile calibrator for a wide range of analytical techniques, including AAS, AES, ICP-OES, ICP-MS, molecular absorption, and selected electroanalytical methods. Its certified values and traceability support quality assurance, method validation, and compliance with regulatory standards.

Used instrumentation

• AAS – Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy
• AES – Atomic Emission Spectroscopy
• ICP-OES – Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry
• ICP-MS – Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry

Future trends and possibilities

Emerging developments include multi-isotope calibration standards for improved accuracy, miniaturized and automated preparation systems, integration with digital certification platforms, and expanded element coverage for advanced environmental and biomedical applications.

Conclusion

ASTASOL® INT-MIX3 provides a robust, high-purity, multi-element calibration solution with well-characterized uncertainty and traceability. Proper handling and storage ensure reliable performance across diverse analytical workflows.