Sample Preparation by Fusion: ICP and ICP-MS Reliable Measurementshis section will deal with fusions for trace analysis using inorganic fluxes. These techniques are required for sample types that are inorganic in nature and unreactive toward acid decomposition.This procedure is intended for the determination of calcium, magnesium, manganese, iron, aluminum, and silicon in limestone. This procedure involves a fusion of the limestone with lithium carbonate at a sample to flux ratio of 1:4. The fusion is performed in a graphite crucible. The lifetime of the crucibles is between 10 and 12 fusions at 800 C. This procedure was designed to be cost effective and fast in addition to giving accurate data.
