Analysis of Pure Lead and Lead Alloys for the Automotive Lead/Acid Battery Industry by Inductively Coupled Argon Plasma Emission Spectroscopy

Abstract

Pure lead and lead alloy dissolution procedures suitable for elemental determinations by inductively coupled argon spectroscopy are described. The group of lead types investigated consisted of pure lead, Pb-Sb alloys, Pb-Ca-Al alloys, and Pb-Ca-Sn-Al alloys. Major alloy concentrations range up to 10% Sb, 2% Sn, 0.2% Ca, and 0.1% Al. Trace impurities from 0.5 to 10 ppm are determined in pure lead and in several lead alloys. Major and trace element determinations are routinely performed simultaneously with the use of five to seven matrix-matched standards for each alloy type. Accuracy and precision data for certified and internal reference materials are reported. Chemical, spectral, and metallurgical interferences are also discussed.