Nu Instruments | High-Precision Cerium Isotope Ratio Determination
This application note demonstrates precise ¹³⁸Ce/¹³⁶Ce isotope measurements using a high-gain detection system on the Nu Plasma MC-ICP-MS. The approach delivers accuracy comparable to reference TIMS methods while overcoming significant interference challenges.
Cerium isotope ratio measurements are complicated by low isotope abundances, significant isobaric interferences and strict precision requirements. This work describes a method developed to achieve highly accurate ¹³⁸Ce/¹³⁶Ce determinations.
The analytical strategy employed high-gain Faraday detection, interference monitoring and isotope-specific correction procedures. Xe, Ba, La and Nd interferences were carefully measured and corrected throughout each analysis.
Results achieved excellent agreement with published TIMS values while demonstrating significantly improved precision compared with previous MC-ICP-MS approaches. The study highlights the importance of low oxide formation and accurate interference correction.
Key Takeaways:
- Accurate cerium isotope ratios matched established TIMS reference data.
- High-gain detection improved precision and interference correction.
- Low oxide formation was essential for reliable isotope measurements.
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