TRM - Bi, In, Sc, Tb, Y - Aqueous calibration solution ASTASOL® ASTASOL® INT-MIX1

Importance of the Topic

Traceable multi-element calibration solutions are essential in analytical chemistry for ensuring accuracy, comparability and regulatory compliance across laboratories. Certified reference materials like ASTASOL® INT-MIX1 provide well-characterized standards for atomic spectrometry and other techniques, supporting reliable quantification of trace metals in diverse aqueous matrices.

Goals and Overview

This identification sheet details the composition, preparation, assigned values and traceability of ASTASOL® INT-MIX1, an aqueous calibration solution containing bismuth, indium, scandium, terbium and yttrium at certified concentrations. The document follows ISO Guide 31 guidelines to support end-users in quality control and method validation.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Preparation and characterization were performed by gravimetric dissolution of high-purity primary compounds in 5 % sub-boiled HNO₃ using ultrapure water (resistivity ≥18 MΩ·cm). Assigned concentrations (10.00 mg/L ±0.05 mg/L at 20 °C) are based on precise weighing and volumetric techniques.

Used Instrumentation

• Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS)
• Atomic Emission Spectrometer (AES)
• Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometer (ICP-OES)
• Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer (ICP-MS)

Main Results and Discussion

The solution exhibits homogeneous distribution of Bi, In, Sc, Tb and Y with total trace impurities below 0.02 mg/L. Stability studies confirm no significant concentration drift over the two-year shelf life when stored at 5–30 °C and protected from evaporation. Expanded uncertainty (k=2) ensures 95 % confidence in reported values.

Benefits and Practical Applications

ASTASOL® INT-MIX1 serves as a primary calibrator for:

• Quantitative atomic spectrometric methods (AAS, AES, ICP-OES, ICP-MS)
• Molecular absorption techniques
• Selected electroanalytical approaches

Its well-defined matrix and traceability to NIST SRMs facilitate method validation, interlaboratory comparisons and routine quality assurance in environmental, pharmaceutical and industrial testing.

Future Trends and Possibilities

Advances in multi-element reference materials include tailored matrices for complex samples, digital certification with blockchain traceability, and miniaturized formats for micro-sampling. Integration with hyphenated techniques (e.g., LC-ICP-MS) and expansion of certified uncertainty profiles will further enhance analytical robustness.

Conclusion

ASTASOL® INT-MIX1 provides a reliable, ISO-accredited calibration solution for precise determination of trace metals in aqueous samples. Its rigorous gravimetric preparation, full traceability and documented stability make it a cornerstone for high-confidence analytical workflows.

Reference

• AN 9008(1N), AN 9026(1N), AN 9052(1N), AN 9058(1N), AN 9067(1N) certified reference materials (ANALYTIKA®), traceable to corresponding NIST SRMs.