Copper analysis method SM-3120B

[Charles Silva]

Hello all

Do is it necessary to add HNO3 to a saltwater water sample to reduce pH for the lab Copper analysis method SM-3120B ?

Is this method the correct to test copper in saltwater ?

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

The acidification of samples prior to ICP analysis is intended to ensure that they remain in solution rather than preciptiate into solid particles or onto the container sides, etc. Acidification is not actually necessary for an ICP to correctly analyze for copper, but acidification is strictly part of that protocol.