Trace element determination in a candidate reference material (Antarctic Krill) by ICP-sector field MS

Inductively coupled plasma sector field mass spectrometry (ICP-SFMS) was us ed for the simultaneous determination of V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Se, Cd, Sn and Pb in a candidate reference material (Antarctic Krill). Samples were collected and treated in the framework of the Italian National Progra m for Research in Antarctica. The entire analytical procedure is described, including sample digestion and handling, instrumental analysis and data ev aluation. Due to the presence of molecular ions of the same nominal masses as the analyte nuclides, the instrument was used at high resolution setting s (m/Delta m approximate to 3200) for most of the elements. Average concent rations (in mu g g(-1), dry weight) found in the samples and relative stand ard deviation (% in brackets) were: V 1.21 (2), Cr 0.51 (6), Mn 4.06 (4), F e 56.2 (10), Co 0.068 (7), Ni 1.30 (4), Cu 70.6 (0.7), Zn 63 (5), Se 7.8 (6 ), Cd 0.71 (11), Sn 0.21 (14) and Pb 1.16 (7). For most of the elements the results obtained by ICP-SFMS are in good agreement with those measured wit h other techniques and used in the certification process.