Hello,
In class we're currently studying sample preparation methods, but I am struggeling with the alkaline fusion method. Suppose, for example, you want to determine the Ti concentration in Egyptian black sand sediments (containing quartz, magnetite and rutile) by using ICP-MS, which means the used sample should be a solution, and sample homogenisation by the alkaline fusion method. Then I have two questions:
1) What actually happens by performing an alkaline fusion method? Why is this option better than just dissolving the sediment with acid?
2) The outcome is some kind of 'glass bead'. How should this by transformed into a soluble mixture suitable for ICP-MS?
Thanks in advance!