Reformulation of Spectrometric Standards Using Aqueous Raw Materials

摘要

Rotrode atomic emission spectrometry is used by all three military oil analysis programs to determine wear debris in engine oil. Instruments are calibrated and standardized with a series of chemical standards that are significant expenditures for the program. Raw materials contribute the most to the cost of the end product. Less expensive commercially available aqueous (rather than oleic) products were explored as raw materials. Aqueous formulation was shown to be unfeasible, but water-in-oil emulsions had similar savings. Emulsions also performed similarly to oleic standards in several regards. Differences in matrix effects observed on different spectrometers confound the implementation and preclude a seamless integration of an alternative matrix. Some uses of emulsion-based standards were validated, but further developmental work is required prior to use in a field laboratory.