Digestions vs. suspensions: The influence of sample preparation on precision and accuracy in total-reflection X-ray fluorescence analysis by the example of waste incineration fly ash

摘要

The elements K, Ca, Ti, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Rb, Sr, Pb, and Br in a fly ash sample from municipal waste incineration were determined by total-reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF) spectrometry. The fly ash was analyzed after microwave-assisted digestion and in the form of suspensions, each with several modifications. The results of the different sample preparation methods were compared with regard to precision and accuracy. Multiple sample spots were prepared for each sample preparation method, and the spread of the results was used as a measure of the precision. Accuracy was evaluated by comparing the median of the results with ICP-OES/ICP-MS analysis results. Additionally, the results were validated using a waste incineration fly ash reference material.