Acid Dissolution and Digestion

The acids commonly nsed to dissolve or digest samples are hydrochloric acid (HCl), nitric acid (HNO3), and snlfnric acid (H2SO4). These acids may be used alone or in combination. The choice of acid or acid mix depends on the sample to be dissolved and the analytes to be measured. The purity of the acid must be chosen to match the level of analyte to be determined. Very-high-purity acids 

Some bases, such as sodium hydroxide and tetramethylanunonium hydroxide, are used for sample dissolution, as are some reagents that are not acids or bases, like hydrogen peroxide. The chemical literature contains sample dissolution procedures for virtually every type of material kuown and should be consulted. For elements and inorganic compounds, the CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics gives guidelines for dissolution in the tables of physical properties of inorganic compounds. 

Material Total Volume of Reagent (mL) Reagent (vohvol) 

Source Extracted from Dulski, T.R., A Manual for the Chemical Analysis of Metals, ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA, 1996. With permission. Copyright 1996 ASTM International. 

Note Dropwise means add drop by drop until dissolution is complete. 

Source. Extracted, with permission, from Dulski. Copyright ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428. 

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