ICP-MS (inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry) is one of the most sensitive methods, able to measure many elements simultaneously at very low concentrations. It is used for heavy-metal control in food, drinking water, wastewater, soil, fertiliser and cosmetic matrices.
Solid samples are digested by microwave, liquid samples are acidified and diluted. Eight elements (As, Cd, Pb, Hg, Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn) are measured in the standard package; more than 30 elements can be added on request.
- Determination at ppb level (µg/kg or µg/L)
- Verification with certified reference material
- A single package for the same sample across several matrices
In food, elements regulated by limits such as lead, cadmium and arsenic are compared with matrix-specific limits; a separate analysis line is used for mercury.