Multielement analysis of deep-sea sediments by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry

Marine sediments were dissolved by HNO3-HF-HCIO4 in a sealed container at low pressure; I-IF was evaporated in an open container and salts were dissolved in HCl by heating, then transferred to 2% HNO3 solution. A total of 45 elements, including Li, Be, So, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, Rb, Sr, Y, Zr, Nb, Mo, Cd, In, Sb, Cs, Ba, La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, Lu, Hf, Ta, W, TI, Pb, Bi, Th and U, were measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Condi-tions and sample experiments showed that this procedure defines a good experimental method which has the advantages of clear interference, easy operation and reliable results. The concentrations of the 45 elements could be used for resource exploration, envi-ronmental assessment and academic research.