The elemental analysis of trace elements in powdered molybdenum is critical for ensuring the material’s suitability in high-performance applications, particularly in metallurgy, electronics, and advanced ceramics. Impurities, even at trace levels, can significantly alter the physical and chemical behavior of molybdenum-based products. This application report outlines a precise and reproducible method for quantifying over 30 trace elements using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). The procedure involves careful sample digestion with nitric and hydrofluoric acids, followed by matrix-matched calibration to ensure accuracy. The method demonstrated excellent detection limits—down to 0.01 mg/kg for magnesium—and high recovery rates when validated against certified reference material, confirming its reliability for quality control and compliance testing.
To support this demanding analytical task, the SPECTRO ARCOS ICP-OES with Dual Side-On Plasma Observation (DSOI) was employed. Its advanced optical system, featuring a Paschen-Runge mount and CMOS detectors, enables full-spectrum acquisition within two seconds and ensures high sensitivity even in the presence of intense matrix lines. The hermetically sealed, argon-purged optics enhance performance in the vacuum ultraviolet range, allowing interference-free detection of both metallic and non-metallic elements. Combined with software-controlled parameters and automation capabilities, the instrument delivers a streamlined workflow for laboratories requiring high-throughput, high-accuracy elemental analysis.
Learn more in this informative application report.