Sample Preparation Using Dry Ashing Methods

Polymers that are insoluble in solvents may be dry ashed in the presence of metal retaining agents (e.g. para-toluene sulphonic acid, PTS A) and the ash residue dissolved in 0.1M HC1 

Note Crucibles used for ashing are usually made of silica, porcelain or platinum. The latter is the best because trace metals may be lost in the pores of silica or porcelain dishes due to the irreversible absorption of the analyte into their walls. Platinum dishes do not absorb the metal atoms which are readily totally dissolved in appropriate solution. Blanks must also be prepared and analysed for each series of samples. 

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Gorsuch, T.T. (1959) Sample preparation using dry ashing method, Analyst (London), 84, pl35. 

Table 6.5 Results of analysis of metal for metal content of Type A and Type B adhesives after sample preparation using dry ashing method...

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