Bulk Analysis of Copper Alloys (GDS900)

Significance of the Topic

Copper alloys play a critical role across numerous industries due to their excellent thermal and electrical conductivity, corrosion resistance and mechanical properties. Precise control of elemental composition ensures that each alloy meets stringent specifications required for electrical distribution, automotive components, heating systems and water infrastructure. Reliable analysis of alloy chemistry is essential to prevent premature product failure and to maintain performance under demanding service conditions.

Objectives and Study Overview

This application note demonstrates the use of the LECO GDS900 glow discharge atomic emission spectrometer for rapid bulk analysis of key copper alloy families. The aim is to establish calibration curves spanning minor to high alloying element concentrations, verify accuracy and precision across multiple alloy grades, and illustrate the throughput benefits of multi-burn analysis.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Samples of various copper alloys—including brass, bronze, aluminum bronze, cupronickel and phosphor bronze—were ground using a 320-grit SiC disk with water to achieve a smooth surface. Measurements were carried out on the LECO GDS900, exploiting its sputter-based glow discharge source and CCD-based detection to deliver linear calibration responses with minimal spectral interferences. Calibration utilized certified reference materials (CRMs) and reference materials (RMs) from recognized suppliers, while non-certified setup standards provided drift correction.

Used Instrumentation

• LECO GDS900 glow discharge atomic emission spectrometer
• LECO PX polisher for sample surface preparation

Main Results and Discussion

Linear calibration curves were achieved for zinc, lead, tin, aluminum and nickel across their full concentration ranges in brass, bronze and related alloys. Analysis times were reduced by performing three consecutive burns at a single spot in 90 seconds. Typical precision (RSD) was better than 2% for most elements, and average recoveries closely matched certified values, demonstrating both accuracy and repeatability.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Rapid multi-burn capability increases throughput for production environments
• High linearity across broad concentration ranges reduces the number of required wavelengths
• Minimal sample history effects due to discrete glow discharge excitation
• Robust drift control strategy maintains calibration stability

Future Trends and Applications

Emerging developments include integration with automated sample handling and laboratory information management systems, expansion of alloy libraries for niche compositions, and advances in plasma control to further improve detection limits and reduce analysis times. Such enhancements will broaden the applicability of glow discharge spectroscopy to new materials and more stringent quality control requirements.

Conclusion

The LECO GDS900 provides a powerful solution for routine bulk analysis of copper alloys, delivering accurate, precise and high-throughput elemental determinations. Its robust calibration and rapid multi-burn approach make it well suited for both alloy producers and end-users requiring reliable QA/QC in demanding industrial settings.