Comparative study of multi-element determination using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, total reflection X-ray fluorescence spectrometry and neutron activation analysis

The analytical capabilities of inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, total reflection X-ray fluorescence spectrometry and neutron activation analysis were compared. The data originated from the parallel analysis of spinach, cabbage and domestic sludge samples, which were used in inter-laboratory tests to monitor precision and accuracy. The determined concentrations range from 40 mg g–1 to 20 ng g–1 and the analytical errors from 2 to 30%. The extensive results and the reliability of the techniques are discussed.