Specifications Table

Product Name – Yttrium, plasma standard solution, Specpure®, Y 10µg/ml
Quantity/Pack Size – 100ml
Form – Liquid (aqueous solution in nitric acid)
Grade – Specpure® (ultra-high purity, <10 ppb impurities)
Application – ICP-OES, ICP-MS, AAS calibration; trace element analysis

Product Overview

This Yttrium plasma standard solution from Specpure® delivers exceptional purity (10µg/ml concentration) for demanding spectroscopic applications, eliminating matrix interferences that compromise analytical accuracy. The solution is prepared in ultra-pure nitric acid (typically 2-5% v/v) to ensure long-term stability and minimize contamination risks during storage or handling. Its Specpure® certification guarantees traceability to NIST SRMs, with impurity levels rigorously controlled below 10 ppb for critical elements like Fe, Cu, and Pb—ideal for low-level detection workflows. The 100ml pack size balances cost efficiency with reduced waste, while the amber glass bottle with PTFE-lined cap prevents leaching or evaporation. Compatible with most ICP-OES, ICP-MS, and AAS instruments, this standard requires no additional dilution for routine calibration curves (1-100 ppb range). The solution’s homogeneous composition ensures consistent signal response across multiple injections, reducing the need for frequent recalibration. For labs prioritizing reproducibility in rare earth element analysis, this Yttrium standard offers a reliable baseline without the variability of in-house preparations.

FAQs

1. What is the shelf life of this Yttrium plasma standard solution when unopened?

The unopened solution remains stable for 24 months from the date of manufacture when stored at 15–25°C in its original packaging. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight or temperature fluctuations, as these can accelerate degradation of the nitric acid matrix. Once opened, use within 6 months for optimal accuracy, though recertification via spike recovery tests is recommended if stored longer.

2. Can this standard be used for ICP-MS analysis without additional purification?

Yes, the Specpure® grade is specifically designed for ICP-MS applications, with total dissolved solids and polyatomic interference levels optimized for mass spectrometry. The nitric acid matrix (2-5%) is compatible with most ICP-MS sample introduction systems, though you may need to match the acid concentration of your samples to avoid signal suppression. For ultra-trace analysis (<1 ppt), a 1:10 dilution with 2% HNO₃ is advisable to minimize potential background noise from the solvent.

3. How does this compare to Yttrium standards from other brands like Inorganic Ventures or SCP Science?

This Specpure® solution matches the purity specifications of premium brands like Inorganic Ventures’ “PlasmaCAL” or SCP Science’s “TraceCERT” standards, with the added advantage of a nitric acid matrix that’s pre-optimized for Indian lab conditions (humidity/temperature variability). Unlike some competitors that use hydrochloric acid, this standard avoids chloride-based interferences (e.g., ArCl⁺) in ICP-MS. The 10µg/ml concentration is also more versatile for serial dilutions compared to higher-concentration standards that require extensive dilution.

4. What precautions should be taken when handling this solution to avoid contamination?

Always use dedicated, acid-washed PP or PFA labware (e.g., Eppendorf tubes or Falcon tubes) to prevent leachable metals from glass or HDPE. Wear nitrile gloves and work under a laminar flow hood if possible, as skin oils or airborne particulates can introduce Na, K, or Ca contaminants. Avoid pipette tips with metal components; use low-retention tips for volumes <100µL. After aliquoting, purge the pipette with 2% HNO₃ to prevent carryover. Never return unused solution to the original bottle.

5. Is this standard suitable for preparing multi-element calibration mixes?

While primarily designed as a single-element standard, it can be combined with other Specpure® solutions (e.g., Lanthanum, Cerium) to create custom multi-element mixes, provided the final acid matrix remains consistent (2-5% HNO₃). However, avoid mixing with standards containing HF or H₂SO₄, as these can precipitate yttrium hydroxides or sulfates. For pre-mixed rare earth standards, consider our “REEs Plasma Mix” (EQ-REEMIX-100), which includes Yttrium at comparable purity levels.