Screening of Geological Rocks for Metal Composition Using Three Different Sample Preparation Methods for Atomic Spectroscopy

This study used three distinct sample preparation techniques to examine the metal content of geological rocks. Aqua regia, alkali fusion, and microwave digestion were among the techniques compared. Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) assessed the effectiveness of each method for determining and evaluating metal content. Based on the preparation technique used, the results indicated notable variations in metal recovery rates. Aqua regia has been demonstrated to be especially beneficial for refractory elements, even if alkaline fusion has shown to be highly effective for the majority of metals.Although microwave digestion is less effective for some metals, it provides a quick and non-destructive alternative for sample preparation. The results demonstrated the importance of using the appropriate sample preparation method to ensure accurate and thorough analysis of geological materials. Principal component analyses (PCAs) that were produced as a result can help researchers and geologists refine their methods for screening metal composition in different geological contexts.