Multielement methods of analyzing high-purity noble metals

This paper considers the current state of four basic methodsof analyzing high-purity noble metals: atomic absorption, atomic emission, neutron activation, and spark mass spectrometry. The major characteristics of analysis methods for high-purity materials are the set of elements that can be determined and the limits of detection. To compare the methods, data are presented on methods of analyzing high-putity gold. A table shows that the largest number of impurities (65) can be determined by spark mass spectromety. The limits of detection for most of the impurities are at the level of 10-6-10-7%. Some elements such as Hg, In, Pt, Ir, Os, Pb, Re, Tl, W, and Zr are determined at the level of 10-5%. Common impurities such as Al, Ca, Fe, K, Mg, Na, and Si are determined by spark mass spectrometry with low limits of detection. The method also enables one to determine Cl, Br, Fr, I, S, and P, as well as C, N, and O