Analytical Spectroscopy
High-precision mass spectrometry techniques ionize liquid sample extracts using high-temperature argon plasma to measure trace elemental concentrations down to parts per trillion levels. Packaging compliance laboratories utilize icp-ms heavy metal testing to screen paperboard stock, barrier coatings, and printing inks for restricted heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, mercury, and total chromium. Analytical precision identifies heavy metal contaminants originating from recycled fibre sources or inorganic pigment additives.
Sample Preparation
Laboratory technicians digest paperboard samples in concentrated nitric acid using closed-vessel microwave digestion systems to dissolve organic substrate matrices completely. Digested liquid solutions aspirate into an argon plasma torch that breaks chemical bonds and generates singly charged atomic ions. The mass spectrometer separates extracted ions according to their specific mass-to-charge ratios before detecting individual elemental counts with electron multipliers.
Multi-element calibration standards allow simultaneous quantification of heavy metal species across wide concentration ranges in a single test run. Recycled paper mills deploy trace metal analysis to monitor incoming pulp quality and prevent contaminated paper batches from reaching food-grade packaging converters. Test results provide definitive verification required for food contact compliance declarations and heavy metal restriction regulations.
Sensitivity Threshold
Mass spectrometry testing applies exclusively to liquid digestates extracted from solid packaging substrates or chemical additives. Standardized deployment of icp-ms heavy metal testing confirms packaging compliance with international toxic substance standards.
