Simultaneous determination of major and minor constituents in cement and steel by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry.

Methods for the simultaneous determination of major and minor constituents in cement and steel samples are developed in this thesis. The effect of matrix elements on analyte emission intensity has been evaluated. Dissolution procedures for these samples are based on the use of acids combined with a microwave-assisted digestion system and all measurements are then carried out by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry. The previous methods of analysis for these samples has been reviewed. This section includes methods which are recommended by many authorities as Standard Procedures. It was found that the use of a microwave-assisted digestion system, coupled with inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry, reduced the total analysis time and reduced operating costs.The results obtained for the simultaneous elemental analysis of cement and steel using such methods are found to be in good agreement to the certified values. The methods developed offer the considerable advantages of rapid sample throughput, simplicity of use and are applicable for many routine analytical purposes.