Analysis of cement by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry using slurry nebulization

An investigation was conducted to determine the feasibility of analysing ce ment by introducing it as a slurry into an inductively coupled plasma optic al emission spectrometer (ICP-OES). A complete analysis of cement for major (Ca, Si, Mg, Al, Fe) and minor and trace elements (S, K, Ti, Na, P, Mn and Sr) was accomplished. Calibration was performed either by using reference materials as slurries or by using simple aqueous standards. A combination o f hydrochloric acid (1% v/v), glycerol (0.01% m/v) and agitation in an ultr asonic bath (10 min) was employed to ensure well dispersed and stable slurr ies. Measurements were made on a simultaneous ICP-OES instrument with both axial and radial plasma viewing. Values obtained for selected elements were compared to those measured on an X-ray fluorescence (XRF) instrument. It w as found that ICP-OES gave an elegant and effective alternative to XRF for the analysis of cement. Accuracy of the technique, was checked by analysing a certified reference material. This proved that the method could be easil y employed on a routine basis for analysis of cement. Cost effectiveness an d simplicity of sample preparation contributed to this conclusion.