1.1 This guide covers procedures for using a direct current argon plasma atomic emission spectrometer (DCP) to determine the concentration of elements in solution. Recommendations are provided for preparing and calibrating the instrument, assessing instrument performance, diagnosing and correcting for interferences, measuring test solutions, and calculating results. A method to correct for instrument drift is included.

1.2 This guide does not specify all the operating conditions for a DCP because of the differences between models of these instruments. Analysts should follow instructions provided by the manufacturer of the particular instrument.

1.3 This guide does not attempt to specify in detail all of the hardware components and computer software of the instrument. It is assumed that the instrument, whether commercially available, modified, or custom built, will be capable of performing the analyses for which it is intended, and that the analyst has verified this before performing the analysis.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precautionary statements are given in Section 8.