Development and analysis of a mixed colloid standard with trace elements using AF4-ICP-MS

Abstract

Environmental context Colloids are small, unstable particles that play important environmental roles in the transport of trace elements and can be analysed using asymmetrical flow field-flow fractionation (AF4) coupled to inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). A mixed colloid solution with trace elements was tested within and across laboratories to explore if the mixture can act as a reproducible, stable standard for measuring colloids with AF4-ICP-MS. Developing reference material is an essential step towards the characterisation of environmental colloids as it promotes the standardisation of techniques and interlaboratory collaboration.