SW-846 Update V 6800 - 1 Revision 1 

October 2012 

METHOD 6800 

 ELEMENTAL AND MOLECULAR SPECIATED ISOTOPE DILUTION MASS SPECTROMETRY

SW-846 is not intended to be an analytical training manual. Therefore, method 

procedures are written based on the assumption that they will be performed by analysts who are 

formally trained in at least the basic principles of chemical analysis and in the use of the subject 

technology. 

In addition, SW-846 methods, with the exception of required method use for the analysis 

of method-defined parameters, are intended to be guidance methods which contain general 

information on how to perform an analytical procedure or technique which a laboratory can use 

as a basic starting point for generating its own detailed standard operating procedure (SOP), 

either for its own general use or for a specific project application. The performance data 

included in this method are for guidance purposes only, and are not intended to be and must not 

be used as absolute quality control (QC) acceptance criteria for purposes of laboratory 

accreditation. 

1.0 SCOPE AND APPLICATION 

For a summary of changes in this version from the previously published draft method 

6800, February 2007 Rev 0, please see Appendix A at the end of this document. 

1.1 This method consists of two approaches: (1) isotope dilution mass spectrometry (IDMS) 

for the determination of the total concentrations of elements and molecules and (2) molecular 

speciated isotope dilution mass spectrometry (SIDMS) for the determination of elemental and 

molecular species. IUPAC defines speciation analysis as “analyzing chemical compounds that 

differ in isotopic composition, conformation, oxidation or electronic state, or in the nature of their

complexed or covalently bound substituents, which can be regarded as distinct chemical 

species.” This method is applicable to the determination of total elements as well as elemental 

species and molecular species at parts per billion (ppb), parts per trillion (ppt) and sub-ppt levels 

in samples of various types; in waters, solids, blood, foods or in extracts or digests. In general, 

elements and molecules that have more than one available stable isotope or combination of 

enriched isotopes in molecules can be analyzed by IDMS and SIDMS. SIDMS may require 

more isotopes of an element and/or molecule, depending on the number of interconvertible 

species. 
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October 2012 

The analyses of the following elements are applicable by this method:

Element CASRNa

Antimony (Sb) 7440-36-0 

Boron (B) 7440-42-8 

Barium (Ba) 7440-39-3 

Cadmium (Cd) 7440-43-9 

Calcium (Ca) 7440-70-2 

Chromium (Cr) 7440-47-3 

Copper (Cu) 7440-50-8 

Iron (Fe) 7439-89-6 

Lead (Pb) 7439-92-1 

Magnesium (Mg) 7439-95-4 

Mercury (Hg) 7439-97-6 

Molybdenum (Mo) 7439-98-7 

Nickel (Ni) 7440-02-0 

Potassium (K) 7440-09-7 

Selenium (Se) 7782-49-2 

Silver (Ag) 7440-22-4 

Strontium (Sr) 7440-24-6 

Thallium (TI) 7440-28-0 

Vanadium (V) 7440-62-2 

Zinc (Zn) 7440-66-6 

a

 Chemical Abstract Service Registry Number

Molecules and species may be analyzed by SIDMS if appropriate performance is 

demonstrated for an analyte, in the matrix type and at concentration levels of interest. See 

examples in the list below (see Sec. 9.0). 

 Glyphosate and other pesticides 

 Sodium azide and other toxicant and explosives 

 Molecular Species, such as oxidized and reduced forms of glutathione, and 

peptides and proteins, 

 Toxin and toxicant species conjugated to glutathione 

 Converting related species such as isoforms and biomarkers 

 Enzymes in tissues and body fluids 

 Toxins and toxicants in dietary supplements, food and consumer products 

 Toxin and toxicant species in water and foods 

 Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosives (CBRNE) for Homeland 

Defense and Homeland Security 

1.2 IDMS is based on the addition of a known amount of enriched isotope to a sample. 

Equilibration of the spike isotope with the natural element/molecule/species in the sample alters 

the isotope ratio that is measured. With the known isotopic abundance of both the spike and 

the analyte in the sample (element/molecule/species), the amount of the spike added to the 

known amount of analyte, concentration of the spike added, and the altered isotope ratio, the 

concentration of the analyte in the sample can be calculated. Direct calculations independent of 

traditional calibration curves are described in section 12. 

1.3 IDMS has proven to be a technique of high accuracy for the determination of the 

total concentration of elements or molecules in various matrices (Refs. 1, 9, 10, 33, 34, and 43). 
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October 2012 

IDMS has several advantages over conventional calibration methodologies. Partial loss of the 

analyte after equilibration of the spike and the sample will not influence the accuracy of the 

measurement. Fewer physical and chemical interferences influence the determination as they 

have the same effects on each isotope of the same element or molecule. The isotope ratio to 

be measured for quantification by IDMS can be measured at a high level of precision, typically 

with a relative standard deviation (RSD) of 0.25% to 1.0%. Quantification is based on direct 

mathematical calculation from determined isotopic ratios and known constants, and does not 

depend on a traditional calibration curve or sample recovery to achieve accuracy. 

1.4 SIDMS takes a unique approach to speciation analysis that differs from traditional 

methods. Traditional methods of speciation analysis attempt to hold each species static during 

sample collection and preparation and while making the measurement. Unfortunately, 

interconversion and transformation of species can occur, resulting in biased results. SIDMS has 

been developed to correct for such species conversions. In SIDMS, each species is “labeled” 

with an isotopically enriched spike in the corresponding species form. Thus, the 

interconversions that occur after spiking are traceable and can be corrected. While SIDMS 

maintains the advantages of IDMS, it is capable of correcting for the degradation of the species 

or the interconversions between the species for mass spectrometer drift and other errors, such 

as incomplete extraction of species (Refs. 2, 3, 5 - 8, 11-22, 24-32, and 35). SIDMS is also a 

diagnostic tool that permits the assessment of species-altering procedures through evaluation 

and validation of other more traditional speciation analysis methods. SIDMS is to be used in 

conjunction with other methods when knowledge of species concentration, conversion and 

stability are necessary. 

1.5 Both IDMS and SIDMS require the equilibration of the isotopically enriched species 

spike with the natural isotopes of the species of interest present in the sample. For IDMS, the 

spike and sample can be in different chemical forms, and later grouped as the same species 

form and only total elemental and or molecular concentrations will be measured. In general, 

IDMS equilibration of the spike and sample isotopes occurs during sample decomposition or 

transformation, which also destroys all species-specific information when the isotopes of an 

element or molecule are all oxidized or reduced or transformed to the same oxidation state. 

For SIDMS, spikes and samples must be in the same speciated form and be equilibrated 

in solution (gaseous, liquid, solid), during extraction or on a separation or extraction column, as 

demonstrated with i-Spike cartridges (Refs. 34 and 43). This requires the analyte in spikes to be 

in the same molecular form as those in the sample. Efforts are taken to keep the species in their 

original forms after spiking as much as possible. For solutions or liquid samples, spiking and 

equilibration procedures can be as simple as mixing a known amount of the sample and the 

spikes prior to analysis. Aqueous samples such as drinking water, groundwater, etc. may be 

directly spiked and analyzed. Solid samples such as soils, sludges, sediments, industrial 

materials, biological tissues, botanicals, lysed cells, foods, including dietary supplements and 

consumer products, mixed samples, blood, urine and other samples containing solid matrices 

require spiking before, during or after extraction or prior to analysis to solubilize and equilibrate 

the species before introduction to the mass spectrometer. Animal and human clinical studies are 

areas where the higher accuracy and precision provided by method 6800 yield more statistically 

significant data than conventional methods. This method has been and can be used to certify 

reference materials, for environmental forensic analysis, and for detecting chemical and 

biological agents (specifically referred to as CBRNE, Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear 

and Explosives) in homeland defense and homeland security applications. 

1.6 Sensitivity and optimum ranges of elements may vary with the matrix, separation 

method, and isotope ratio measurement methods and specific ionization source and specific 

mass spectrometer. Using a liquid chromatography (LC) in-line with inductively coupled plasma 
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October 2012 

mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), it is convenient to separate elemental or molecular species and to 

measure their isotope ratios. Using a liquid chromatography (LC, or Nano-LC in-line with 

QTOF, triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (QQQ) or other MS instruments, it is appropriate to 

separate molecular species and to measure their isotope ratios. Although Method 6800 is not 

restricted to LC as the separation method of the species and the ICP-MS as the isotope ratio 

measurement MS, this document will use these techniques as examples for the most part in 

describing the Method’s procedures. Molecular species separation methods such as extraction, 

precipitation, solid phase chelation, and isotope ratio measurement techniques such as thermal 

ionization mass spectrometry (TIMS), electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS), 

matrix assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) and other mass 

spectrometers such as time-of-flight mass spectrometers (TOF-MS) can also be used. NanoESI-MS –TOF, quadrupole time-of-flight (QTOF), QQQ, GC-MS, GC-QTOF, and GC-QQQ are 

mass spectrometric techniques that also separate and measure the species and isotopic ratios 

of molecular species and therefore are included as mass spectrometry platforms. 

1.7 Prior to employing this Method, analysts are advised to consult the base method 

for each type of procedure that may be employed in the overall analysis for additional 

information on quality control procedures, development of QC acceptance criteria, calculations, 

and general guidance. Analysts also should consult the disclaimer statement at the front of the 

manual and the information in SW-846 Chapter Two for guidance on the intended flexibility in 

the choice of methods, apparatus, materials, reagents, and supplies, and on the responsibilities 

of the analyst for demonstrating that the techniques employed are appropriate for the analytes 

of interest, in the matrix of interest, and at the levels of concern. 

In addition, analysts and data users are advised that, except where explicitly specified in a 

regulation, the use of SW-846 methods is not mandatory in response to Federal testing 

requirements. The information contained in this method is provided by EPA as guidance to be 

used by the analyst and the regulated community in making judgments necessary to generate 

results that meet the data quality objectives for the intended application. 

1.8 This method is restricted to be used by, or under supervision of, properly 

experienced and trained personnel. Each analyst must demonstrate the ability to generate 

acceptable results with this method. The scientific literature should be consulted for fundamental 

training and for updating the fundamental of this method and for additional examples of 

application. 

2.0 SUMMARY OF METHOD 

2.1 IDMS method 

2.1.1 Samples may require a variety of sample preparation procedures, 

depending on sample matrices and the isotope ratio measurement methods. One primary 

purpose of sample preparation is to solubilize the analyte of interest and equilibrate the 

spike isotopes with the isotopes in the sample. Solids, slurries, and suspended material 

must be subjected to digestion after spiking by using appropriate sample preparation 

methods (such as Method 3052). Water samples may not require digestion when ICP-MS 

is used as a detection method because ICP can destroy elemental species and thus many 

species may become indistinguishable for ICP-MS. Molecular species usually have the 

molecule-specific isotopes added during extraction to achieve equilibration of the species 

prior to introduction to ESI-MS, nano-ESI-TOF-MS, GC-MS, MALDI-MS, LC-QQQ, GCTOF, GC-QQQ, LC(IC)-ICP-MS, GC-ICP-MS and other molecular mass spectrometric 

analysis techniques. 
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October 2012 

 

2.1.2 A measured representative sample is thoroughly mixed with a measured 

amount of the isotopic spike. If a digestion procedure is required, the spiked sample is 

then digested to equilibrate the spikes and samples. The sample solutions are then 

measured with mass spectrometry such as ICP-MS to obtain the altered isotope ratios. 

Method 6020 can be used as a reference method for ICP-MS detection. In addition to 

Method 6020, dead time correction and mass bias correction must be included in the 

measurement protocol. The equations described in Sec. 12.1 are used to calculate the 

concentrations. 

Figure 2 shows an example of an IDMS determination of vanadium in crude oil 

(Ref. 1). IDMS determination of the restricted elements Cd, Cr, Pb and Hg in electrical 

components are demonstrated in Table 11 (Ref. 26). 

2.2 SIDMS method 

2.2.1 Speciated samples generally require sample preparation specific to the 

sample matrices, species, and the isotope ratio measurement method. The purpose of 

sample preparation is to solubilize the species of interest and to equilibrate the natural and 

spiked species, creating a homogeneous solution. Solids, slurries, and suspended 

material must be subjected to extraction before or after spiking, using appropriate sample 

preparation methods (such as Method 3060A for the determination of Cr(VI) in soils, and 

Method 3200 for the determination of mercury species in food, blood and tissues, and 

helix chromatography in the case of protein, peptide or proteomics). Method 3546 and 

other sample preparation methods in SW-845 Chapters Three and Four are applicable for 

environmental health and other toxicants in the environment and human health. Water 

samples may not need extraction and in many cases may be equilibrated and analyzed 

directly. In contrast to total molecular and element analysis, efforts must be taken to avoid 

the destruction of the species in SIDMS. For example, in molecular species analysis, 

reduced glutathione in blood, plasma and/or serum is transformed to oxidized glutathione 

(dimer species) by oxygen in the air during blood draw, storage, shipment or analysis. 

Sample preparation, spiking, and spike equilibration must be carried out in the absence of 

oxygen prior to LC-ESI-MS, nano-ESI-MS or MALDI-MS analysis. Species of mercuryglutathione complex appear to be more stable to oxygen but methylation and 

demethylation of these mercury species can occur during sample preparation and 

analysis. 

2.2.2 Although SIDMS is a general method applicable to many elements in 

various species forms, for example chromium species, Cr(III) and Cr(VI), or proteomic 

species such as oxidized and reduced glutathione in human health and environmental 

samples such as water samples or soil extracts blood and serum will be considered here 

for demonstration of molecular species analysis. For the chromium species two isotopic 

spikes are prepared and characterized as follows: 50Cr(III) spike enriched in 50Cr and 

53Cr(VI) spike enriched in 53Cr. The dominant natural isotope for Cr is 52Cr, at 83.79% 

abundance (50Cr, 4.35%; 53Cr, 9.50%; 54Cr, 2.36%). A measured amount of a 

representative aqueous sample is mixed well with an appropriate amount of 50Cr(III) and 

53Cr(VI) spike solutions. Cr(III) and Cr(VI) are separated using chromatography or another 

separation method (Figure 3), and four isotope ratios are measured: 50Cr(III)/52Cr(III), 

53Cr(III)/52Cr(III), 50Cr(VI)/52Cr(VI), and 53Cr(VI)/52Cr(VI). The concentrations of the species 

are determined from speciated isotope dilution calculation in section 12.2. 
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October 2012 

Figures 4 and 5 show examples of SIDMS for the determination of chromium 

species in an aqueous sample. Any species transformation between Cr(VI) and Cr(III) is 

mathematically corrected, as described in Sec. 12.2. 

 2.2.3 SIDMS may be called upon to analyze multiple species of interest that 

require selection of different isotopically enriched species and combinations of species. 

For example, if reduced and oxidized glutathione are being determined, the two isotopic 

forms of reduced glutathione and oxidized glutathione are equilibrated prior to shipment of 

blood samples to correct for oxidation of reduced glutathione to oxidized glutathione in 

shipment and during analysis to produce a statistically accurate result that is actionable by 

the practitioners. However, if for example the inorganic (Hg2+) and methylmercury 

(CH3Hg+

) conjugated forms of glutathione are being quantified, then species enriched with 

C-13, N-15, O-17 or O-18, or Hg-196 through Hg-204 are potential alternative spikes to 

quantify conjugates of glutathione and mercury species. 

 Figures 8 A-D show examples of SIDMS for the determination of glutathione 

mercury species of glutathione-Hg dimer and glutathione-methylmercury monomer. 

Figure 9 demonstrates nano-ESI-QTOF-MS abundance of reduced and oxidized 

glutathione for the analysis of Total GSH and GSH/GSSG ratios. 

3.0 DEFINITIONS 

See the "Glossary" at the end of this document for definitions of applicable terms. Also 

refer to SW-846 Chapters One and Three, and the manufacturer’s documentation for definitions 

that may be relevant to these procedures. 

4.0 INTERFERENCES 

4.1 Solvents, reagents, glassware, and other sample processing hardware may yield 

artifacts and/or interferences to sample analysis. All of these materials must be demonstrated 

to be free from interferences under the conditions of the analysis by analyzing method blanks. 

Specific selection of reagents and purification of solvents by distillation of all-glass systems may 

be necessary. Refer to each method to be used for specific guidance on quality control 

procedures and to SW-846 Chapter Three for general guidance on the cleaning of glassware. 

4.2 Sample preparation 

4.2.1 Because this Method requires equilibration of the spike isotope(s) with the 

natural isotopes, solid samples must be digested, dissolved and/or extracted into solution. 

If the analyte of interest does not completely dissolve, if the spike or sample isotopes are 

selectively lost before equilibration, or if contamination occurs in the sample preparation 

process, the measured isotope ratio will not reflect the accurate ratio of the added spike 

atoms to sample atoms for that element or species (Refs. 1 and 3). 

4.2.2 In general, SIDMS incorporates the requirement that all the converted 

species can be found in other species that are being monitored. As an example, in the 

interconversion between Cr(III) and Cr(VI), the lost Cr in one species must be found in the 

other species. Similarly, for example, in molecular species, if reduced and oxidized 

glutathione or inorganic glutathione and methylmercury-glutathione are found to transform 

among them, the isotopic signature from the enriched species spike are able to correct for 

these transformations. Thus, efforts should be made to keep all species in solution after 

equilibration with the enriched isotope species of interest. 
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October 2012 

4.2.3 Preservation of the species is required in SIDMS since interconversion 

degrades the precision of the measurement. Complete conversion of the species will 

prevent the deconvolution of the species concentration. Thus, sample decomposition 

applied for total element determination is inappropriate for SIDMS. However, the altered 

isotope ratios will indicate the conversion that has occurred and will not lead to an 

incorrect answer, but to a situation where the concentration cannot be determined and the 

species interconversions has been revealed. As little as 1 to 5% of the species have 

remained with correction to the original concentration based on the calculations and 

equations are provided (Refs. 30, 34, and 35). Approaches developed to maintain the 

species are applicable to SIDMS. 

4.3 Isotope ratio measurement 

4.3.1 Discussions about isobaric interference, doubly-charged ion interference, 

and memory interference in Method 6020B are applicable to this method. The discussion 

about the physical interference, suggesting the addition of an internal standard, does not 

apply. The internal standard is unnecessary because the isotope ratio measurement is 

free from physical interferences and each measurement is a standardized measurement 

without traditional calibration curves (General considerations for isotope ratio 

measurement can be found in Sec. 13.5.1). 

4.3.2 Dead time measurement in ICP-MS must be performed daily. At high 

count rates, two effects cause pulse counting systems to count fewer events than actually 

occur (Sec. 13.5.2 and 13.5.3). The first is dead time (τ), the interval during which the 

detector and its associated counting electronics are unable to resolve successive pulses. 

If the true rate, n, is much less than 1/τ, then: 

m ≈ n 1( − mτ )

where m is the observed rate. The second effect is the loss of gain at high rates caused 

by the inability of the multiplier’s dynode string to supply enough current to maintain 

constant dynode voltage drops. This effect is indicated by a sharp increase in apparent 

dead time at high count rates. Both effects cause the measured isotope ratios to diverge 

from the true isotope ratios with increasing count rate. While the dead time can be 

mathematically corrected, the gain loss cannot. 

In molecular measurements on a TOF, QTOF or QQQ at low concentrations dead time 

may not be significant compared to the signal of the analytes. In these cases dead time 

may be neglected if it does not significantly affect the statistical uncertainty of the 

measurements. 

A series of solutions with different concentrations can be prepared from isotopically 

certified standards for the determination of dead time. The concentrations may not be 

accurate, but the concentrations should spread out evenly, covering the blank to the 

highest count rate that may be used in measurements. The isotope pairs that are 

monitored should have large differences between their isotopic abundances, since the 

major isotopes suffer dead time effects much more seriously than minor isotopes; this 

makes the dead time correction significant. The sum of the dead-time-corrected counts is 

used for calculating the isotope ratios after background subtraction. 
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October 2012 

_ Rm is the dead-time-corrected isotope ratio; 

_ 

Isotope1Ssample/standard and Isotope2S sample/standard are the integrated dead-timecorrected counts for the sample or standard of Isotope1 and Isotope2, respectively; 

_ 

Isotope1Sbackground and Isotope2Sbackground are the integrated dead-time-correctedcounts for the background of Isotope1 and Isotope2, respectively. 

As shown in Figure 1, which displays the 50Cr/52Cr ratios for SRM 979 

(Cr(NO3)3•9H2O) as a function of the count rate, the isotope ratios are highly dependent 

on the number used for dead time correction. When the dead time is set to 43.5 ns, the 

isotope ratios are approximately constant up to the count rate of 5.8 x 105

. At higher count 

rates, gain loss will occur and cannot be mathematically corrected. Therefore, the 

solutions must be diluted in the case where the count rate is higher than this value. 

NOTE: Dead time correction in ICP-MS is performed before mass bias correction, so 

the dead-time-corrected isotope ratios may be different from the certified 

isotope ratios. Although it is unnecessary to use isotopically certified material 

for the determination of dead time, the certified material is still required for the 

measurement of mass bias factors. Thus, it is convenient to use the same 

certified material for both dead time and mass bias factor measurement. Dead 

time correction in Nano-ESI-QTOF is unnecessary due to the small sample size 

and low demand on detector capacity. 

NOTE: It has been observed in ICP-MS that using different isotope pairs for dead time 

measurement may obtain different dead times. Thus, it is required to do the 

dead time measurement for each isotope pair that will be used. The dead time 

must be determined daily. 

4.3.3 Instrumental discrimination/fraction effects are changes induced in the 

“true” isotope ratios from the ionization process or from differential transmission/detection 

by the mass spectrometer. This effect can bias the ratios either positively or negatively. 

To correct for the mass bias, mass bias factors should be determined with isotopically 

certified materials. 

 mass bias factor = Rt

 /Rm

where: 

_ Rt

 and Rm are the certified isotope ratio and the measured dead-time-correctedisotope-ratios of the standard material, respectively. 

The dead-time-corrected isotope ratios of the samples can be corrected using: 

 Rc = mass bias factor x Rm 

where: 

background

Isotope2

sample s/ tandard

Isotope2

background

Isotope1

sample s/ tandard

Isotope1

m

S S

S S

R

−

−

=
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October 2012 

_ Rc and Rm are the corrected isotope ratio and the measured dead-time-correctedisotope-ratios of the sample, respectively. 

Mass discrimination is a time-dependent instrumental effect, therefore, the mass 

bias factors must be determined periodically during the measurement of the samples. 

Samples are run with the assumption that mass bias factors remain constant. In general, 

the mass bias factors are stable over several hours of ICP-MS operation. However, the 

measurement interval for determining mass bias factors should generally not exceed four 

hours. 

NOTE: Some previous work observed the following relationship between the measured 

and the true isotope ratios for ICP-MS: Rm=Rt (1+an), where a is the bias per 

mass unit and n is the mass difference between isotopes (12). This enables 

the calculation of the mass bias factors of other isotope pairs based on the 

measurement of one pair of isotopes. However, this must be verified 

experimentally. Otherwise, the mass bias factor for each isotope pair must be 

determined. 

5.0 SAFETY 

5.1 This method does not address all safety issues associated with its use. The 

laboratory is responsible for maintaining a safe work environment and a current awareness file 

of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations regarding the safe 

handling of the chemicals listed in this method. A reference file of material safety data sheets 

(MSDSs) should be available to all personnel involved in these analyses. 

5.2 Refer to Chapter Three for a discussion on safety-related references and issues. 

 5.3 Many chromium, mercury and molecular compounds are highly toxic if swallowed, 

inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. Extreme care must be exercised in handling hexavalent 

chromium, mercury species and many molecular reagents. These toxic and toxicant reagents 

should only be handled by analysts who are knowledgeable about their risks and of safe 

handling procedures. 

6.0 EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES 

 Trade names or commercial products mentioned in this manual is for illustrative purposes 

only, and does not constitute an EPA endorsement or exclusive recommendation for use. The 

products and instrument settings cited in SW-846 methods represent those products and 

settings used during method development or subsequently evaluated by the Agency. 

Glassware, reagents, supplies, equipment, and settings other than those listed in this manual 

may be employed provided that method performance appropriate for the intended application 

has been demonstrated and documented. 
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October 2012 

6.1 ICP-MS or other mass spectrometers capable of baseline resolution (at least one 

unified atomic mass unit, u) are required. For example, mass spectrometers such as TOF may 

have 20,000 to 60,000 u resolution. Other mass spectrometers of even higher resolution are 

available. The data system should allow for corrections of isobaric interferences, dead time and 

mass bias or the equivalent, or the raw data may be exported to a computer for further 

processing. For quadrupole mass spectrometers, the dwell time should be adjustable since 

proper settings of dwell time can significantly improve the precision of the isotope ratio 

measurement in mass scanning instruments. Both scan mode and peak jump mode and 

simultaneous (i.e., TOF) systems can be used, depending on the instrumentation. The use of a 

mass-flow controller for the nebulizer argon and a peristaltic pump for the sample solution are 

recommended. When chromatography is coupled to ICP-MS for on-line detection, the ICP-MS 

data system must be capable of correcting interferences, dead time and mass bias, and 

calculating the isotope ratios in time resolved analysis mode (TRA), or the raw data can be 

exported for off-line processing. Other mass spectrometers may also be used, providing a 

precision of 0.5% or better can be obtained for the isotope ratio measurement. Examples of 

other ionization and mass spectrometers would be ESI, nanoESI and/or MALDI and/or 

microwave induced plasma (MIP) ionization coupled to quadrupole, TOF and/or ion-trap and/or 

QQQ mass spectrometers. Appropriate correction protocols for these mass spectrometers 

should be applied based on the performance specifications of the mass spectrometer. 

 

6.2 Chromatography or other separation methods are used to isolate species prior to 

isotope ratio measurement. Chromatography, such as ion exchange chromatography may be 

used to separate the species on-line in SIDMS (Figure 3). Chromatography components should 

be chemically inert based on the specific reagents and analytes. The eluent components and 

the flow rate of the chromatography system must be compatible with ICP-MS. An interface 

between the chromatography and ICP-MS may be required for compatibility reasons. 

Alternatively, any appropriate separation methods, including extraction, solid phase extraction, 

chelation, reverse phase, normal phase and other chromatography, precipitation, affinity -based 

separations and combinations of these and others can be used after validation. 

7.0 REAGENTS AND STANDARDS 

7.1 All reagents should be of appropriate purity to minimize the blank levels due to 

contamination. Whenever possible, acids should be sub-boiling distilled. All references to 

water in the method refer to high purity reagent water. Other reagent grades may be used if it is 

first ascertained that the reagent is of sufficient purity to permit its use without lessening the 

accuracy of the determination. If the purity of a reagent is questionable, analyze the reagent to 

determine the level of its impurity. 

7.2 For higher precision, solutions may be prepared by weight. For IDMS, standard 

stock solutions with natural isotopic abundance may be purchased or prepared from ultra-high 

purity grade chemicals or metals. As an example, see Method 6020B for instructions on 

preparing standard solutions from solids. Generally, the same procedures are applicable to 

isotope-enriched materials. However, when a limited amount of the isotope-enriched material is 

used (usually due to cost considerations) to prepare the stock solutions, the solutions require 

calibration with inverse isotope dilution (see Sec. 7.4.1). Isotope-enriched materials with known 

enrichment can be purchased from several suppliers, such as the Oak Ridge National 

Laboratory Electromagnetic Isotope Enrichment Facility (ORNL-EMIEF). Other examples are 

provided below. 
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October 2012 

7.3 Currently, standard stock solutions made for speciation analysis are commercially 

available. Thus, in addition to the dissolution of the standard solid, the chemical conversion of 

the element and molecule into the desired species is usually required for SIDMS. The 

preparation of Cr(VI) and Cr(III) stock standards for SIDMS will be illustrated as an example and 

the glutathione reduced and oxidized are also illustrated for molecular examples. These two 

example also are specifically illustrated in the equations that follow with chromium species 

illustrating the elemental and glutathione species illustrating the molecular species. For other 

elements and molecular species, procedures must be specifically developed, obtained from the 

literature or obtained by the manufacture and developers. One supplier of stable isotope 

standards for SIDMS and IDMS is Applied Isotope Technologies (AIT) Inc. These standards are 

and may be covered by patents. AIT is located at 2403 Sidney St. Suite 280, Pittsburgh PA 

15203, info@sidms.com, http://www.sidms.com. 

7.3.1 In this example of inorganic elemental speciation of chromium species, there are four 

standards to be prepared for the simultaneous analysis of Cr(VI) and Cr(III): natCr(VI) and 

natCr(III) with natural abundance, 53Cr(VI) enriched in 53Cr, 50Cr(III) enriched in 50Cr, and isotopicabundance-calibrated Cr standard solution. In the molecular example of reduced and oxidized 

glutathione these species of natural and enriched species have exact analogues and 

corresponding reagents. For example reduced natural glutathione (GSH) having C-12, N-14 

and O-16 are the natural forms of GSH. There are isotopically enriched analogues where C-13, 

N-15, and/or O-17, O-18 are enriched. Oxidized glutathione (GSSG) has similar natural and 

isotopically enriched forms. The equations are similar to those applied to the Cr natural and 

enriched species with the Cr(III) corresponding to the GSH both natural and enriched and the 

Cr(VI) GSSG both natural and enriched. One additional factor in molecular SIDMS is that there 

are small percentages of natural C-13, N-15 and O-17 and O-18 that account for a 1% naturally 

occurring signal that can be corrected as described (Refs. 34, 35, and 36). The calculations are 

essentially identical using both of the iterative and determinative SIDMS equations with the 

exception of adding the correction for the naturally occurring isotopes of C-13, N-15, and O-17 

and O18 that effect the accuracy within the range of 1 to 2% in most cases. See the referenced 

literature and other SIDMS literature for further details on these modifications for molecular 

SIDMS. 

7.3.2 1 mg/mL Cr(VI) and Cr(III) standards are commercially available. natCr(VI) 

and natCr(III) can also be prepared from K2Cr2O7 and Cr metal, respectively. 

7.3.2.1 natCr(VI) standard solution, stock, 1 g = 1 mg Cr: Dissolve 

0.2829 g of K2Cr2O7 in about 80 mL of reagent water and dilute to 100 g with 

reagent water. 

7.3.2.2 natCr(III) standard solution, stock, 1 g = 1 mg Cr: Dissolve 0.1 

g of Cr metal (accurately to at least 4 significant figures) in a minimum amount of 

6M HCl and dilute the solution with 1% HNO3 to 100 g. 

7.3.3 53Cr(VI) standard solution, 1 g ≈ 10 μg Cr: The following procedure 

describes chromium oxide as the source material. A 150-mL glass or quartz beaker is 

used for the dissolution. Weigh 5.8 mg of 53Cr-enriched oxide (the exact amount should 

be calculated based on the content of Cr in the material) into the beaker and add 8 mL of 

concentrated HClO4. Slowly heat the beaker on a hot plate until bubbles form on the 

bottom; the solution should not boil. Keep heating the solution for up to 6 hrs until all 

solids are dissolved and only 1 to 2 mL of the solution remains. Turn off the hot plate and 

wait until the beaker cools down. Rinse the beaker and watch glass with 10 mL of reagent 

water; the solution should turn intense yellow. Add 50 μL of 30% H2O2 and 4.5 mL of 

concentrated NH4OH. Slowly heat the vessel until the solution gently boils to oxidize all Cr 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 12 Revision 1 

October 2012 

to Cr(VI). Allow the solution to boil for at least 15 minutes to remove the excessive H2O2. 

Transfer the solution to a 500-mL polymeric (e.g., polytetrafluoroethylene [PTFE], 

polyethylene, polypropylene, etc.) bottle and dilute the solution to 400 g. The exact 

concentration of the 53Cr(VI) spike must be calibrated with natCr(VI) standard as described 

in Sec. 7.4. 

NOTE: The procedure may be simpler when the isotope-enriched materials are 

available in other molecular forms. For example, when K2Cr2O7 enriched in 

53Cr is available, the solid can be dissolved in reagent water without further 

conversion; when Cr metal is available, the metal can be dissolved in 6M HCl 

as described in Sec. 7.3.2.2, followed by the addition of H2O2 and NH4OH to 

oxidize Cr(III) to Cr(VI) as described above. 

NOTE: The molecular forms of GSH and GSSG have similar analogues. To prevent 

the oxidation of GSH to GSSG in the published application, N-ethylmaleimide 

(NEM) is added to prevent oxidation of GSH (Ref. 35). NEM blocks the 

cysteine fictional group and slows down oxidation. However addition of NEM is 

not completely effective and therefore correction by SIDMS might be required 

in some cases (Ref. 35) 

WARNING: Concentrated HClO4 is a very strong oxidizer. Safety protocols require this 

reagent only be used in a perchloric acid hood or equivalent solution and 

vapor handling system. 

7.3.4 50Cr(III) standard solution, 1 g ≈ 10 μg Cr: The following procedure 

describes chromium metal as the source material. Weigh 4 mg of the metal into a 30-mL 

PTFE vessel. Add 4 mL of 6M HCl and gently heat the solution but do not boil it until the 

solid is dissolved. Continue to heat the solution until only 1 to 2 mL of the solution remains. 

The solution is then cooled and transferred to a 500-mL polymeric bottle. Dilute the 

solution with 1% HNO3 to 400 grams. The exact concentration of the 50Cr(III) spike must 

be calibrated with natCr standard as described in Sec. 7.4. 

NOTE: The procedure depends on the form of the material. For example, when 

K2Cr2O7 enriched in 50Cr is available, the solid can be dissolved in 1% HNO3, 

followed by the addition of H2O2 to reduce Cr(VI) to Cr(III). The excessive H2O2

can be removed by boiling the solution. 

7.3.5 Isotopic-abundance-certified standard solution, stock, 1 g ≈ 10 μg Cr: 

Weigh 31 mg of Cr(NO3)3·9H2O (SRM 979) into a 500-mL polymeric container. Dissolve 

the solid and dilute it with 1% HNO3 to 400 g. 

7.4 The isotope-enriched spikes require characterization since a limited amount of 

material is usually weighed, complex treatment is involved, or the purity of the source material is 

limited (usually <99% ). For the SIDMS method, in addition to the total concentration of the 

standard, the distribution of the species must be determined before it can be used (see Section 

12.2.2, 2nd NOTE). Inverse IDMS and inverse SIDMS measurement is used to calibrate the 

isotope-enriched spike and to determine the species distribution. The characterization of 

53Cr(VI) spike solution will be illustrated as an example. 

7.4.1 Calibration of total concentration of spike solution with natural material: 

Weigh the proper amount (WX) of 10 μg/g (CStandard) natCr standard and the proper amount 

(WS) of the 53Cr(VI) spike (nominal concentration is 10 μg/g) into a polymeric container, 

and dilute the mixture with 1% HNO3 to a concentration suitable for isotope ratio 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 13 Revision 1 

October 2012 

measurement. Use direct aspiration mode to determine the isotope ratio of 53Cr/52Cr (R

53/52). The concentration of the spike, CSpike , can be calculated using the following 

equations: 

CSpike = CS MS

















−

−

=

S

53

S

52

53/52

X

52

X 53/ 52

53

S

X X

S

R A A

A R A

W

C W C

X S tan dard MX C = C /

where CS and CX are the concentrations of the isotope-enriched spike and the standard 

with natural isotopic abundance in μmole/g, respectively. MS and MX are the average 

atomic weights of the spike and the standard in g/mole, respectively. 53AS and 53AX are the 

atomic fractions of 53Cr for the spike and standard, respectively. 52AS and 52AX are the 

atomic fractions of 52Cr for the spike and standard, respectively. 

NOTE: The same procedure is applicable to the calibration of the isotope-enriched 

spike solutions in IDMS. The same procedure is also applicable to the 

calibration of 50Cr(III) by changing isotope 53Cr to 50Cr. 

NOTE: Average atomic weight = Σ(atomic weight of the isotope x atomic fraction) 

7.4.2 Calibration of the concentration of the Cr(VI) in the 53Cr(VI) spike with 

natCr(VI): Weigh the proper amount (WX) of 10 μg/g (Cstandard

VI ) natCr(VI) standard and the 

proper amount (WS) of the 53Cr(VI) spike (nominal concentration is 10 μg/g ) into a 

polymeric container, and dilute the mixture with reagent water to a concentration suitable 

for measurement. Acidify the solution to pH 1.7 - 2.0 with concentrated HNO3. Separate 

the Cr(VI) with chromatography or other separation methods and measure the isotope 

ratio of 53Cr/52Cr in Cr(VI) species ( VI R53/52 ). The concentration of Cr(VI) in the spike, CSpike

VI

, 

can be calculated using the following equations: 

S

VI

S

VI CSpike = C M

















−

−

=

S

53

S

VI 52

53/ 52

X

VI 52

X 53/52

53

S

X

VI

VI X

S

R A A

A R A

W

C W C

X

VI

Standard

VI CX = C / M

where CS

VI and CXVI are the concentrations of Cr(VI) in the isotope-enriched spike and 

standard with natural isotopic abundance in μmole/g, respectively. MS and MX are the 

average atomic weights of the spike and the standard in g/mole, respectively. 53AS and 

53AX are the atomic fractions of 53Cr for the spike and standard, respectively. 52AS and 52AX

are the atomic fractions of 52Cr for the spike and standard, respectively. 

NOTE: This set of equations is similar to those used in the determination of total Cr in 

53Cr(VI) standard (Sec. 7.4.1). The general equations for inverse SIDMS are 

not so simple. However, for speciation of Cr(VI) and Cr(III) in standard 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 14 Revision 1 

October 2012 

solutions, because the matrix is so simplified, only the reduction of Cr(VI) to 

Cr(III) is observed at low pH. Thus, the existence of Cr(III) species will not 

influence the isotope ratio of Cr(VI), and the complex equations can be 

simplified to the equations shown above (Ref. 3). 

7.4.3 The distribution of Cr(III) and Cr(VI) in 53Cr(VI) spike can be calculated as: 

percentage of Cr(VI) =

VI

Spike

Spike

C

 x 100%

C

percentage of Cr(III) = 

VI

Spike

Spike

C

1 - x 100%

C

     

NOTE: No determination of the species distribution in 50Cr(III) spike is required 

because only Cr(III) is present in this solution. 

7.5 Blank samples -- Three types of blank samples are required for the analysis; 

namely, a background blank for subtracting background in isotope ratio measurement, a 

preparation blank for monitoring possible contamination resulting from the sample preparation 

procedures, and a rinse blank for flushing the system between all samples and standards. 

7.5.1 The background blank consists of the same concentration(s) of the 

acid(s) used to prepare the final dilution of the sample solution (often 1% HNO3 (v/v) in 

reagent water). 

7.5.2 The preparation (or reagent) blank must be carried through the complete 

preparation procedure and contain the same volumes of reagents as the sample solutions. 

7.5.3 The rinse blank consists of 1 to 2 % HNO3 (v/v) in reagent water. Prepare 

a sufficient quantity to flush the system between standards and samples. Refer to Method 

6020 regarding the interference check solution. 

7.6 Refer to Method 6020 for preparing mass spectrometer tuning solution. 

8.0 SAMPLE COLLECTION, PRESERVATION, AND STORAGE 

Sample collection, preservation and storage requirements may vary by EPA program and 

may be specified in a regulation or project planning document that requires compliance 

monitoring for a given contaminant. Where such requirements are specified in the regulation, 

follow those requirements. In the absence of specific regulatory requirements, use the following 

information as guidance in determining the sample collection, preservation and storage 

requirements. 

8.1 See the introductory material to SW-846 Chapter Three for inorganic analytes and 

Chapter Four for organic analytes. 

8.2 Due to the possible degradation or interconversion of the species, samples 

collected for speciation analysis must be isotopically spiked as soon as possible. The 

measurement, however, can be carried out later provided that less than 95% degradation or 
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October 2012 

interconversion occurs with validation of specific species groups. The holding time prior to 

measurement depends on the preservation of the species. 

8.3 Proper methods to retard the chemical activity of the species are applicable to 

SIDMS. 

8.4 All sample containers must be prewashed with detergents, acids, and water. 

Polymeric containers can be used and containers are chosen for inertness and compatibility of 

the matrix, molecules and species to be analyzed. See SW-846 Chapters Three and Four for 

further information on clean chemistry procedures to reduce blank effects in these 

measurements. 

9.0 QUALITY CONTROL 

9.1 Refer to SW-846 Chapter One for guidance on quality assurance (QA) and QC 

protocols. When inconsistencies exist between QC guidelines, method-specific QC criteria take 

precedence over both technique-specific criteria and those criteria given in Chapter One, and 

technique-specific QC criteria take precedence over the criteria in SW-846 Chapter One. Any 

effort involving the collection of analytical data should include development of a structured and 

systematic planning document, such as a Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) or a Sampling 

and Analysis Plan (SAP), which translates project objectives and specifications into directions 

for those that will implement the project and assess the results. Each laboratory should 

maintain a formal quality assurance program. The laboratory should also maintain records to 

document the quality of the data generated. All data sheets and quality control data should be 

maintained for reference or inspection.

9.2 Initial demonstration of proficiency 

Each laboratory must demonstrate initial proficiency with the appropriate sample 

preparation and the isotope ratio measurement methods by generating data of acceptable bias 

and precision for target analytes in a clean matrix. Method 8000 provides information on how to 

accomplish a demonstration of proficiency for standard methods. This method, using SIDMS, 

has unique proficiency requirements as concentrations are determined by direct calculation 

based on isotopic properties of the target analyte and the enriched isotopic species spike 

without the use of calibration curves as described in Method 8000. During SIDMS analysis by 

Method 6800, analyte transformations may occur to some extent in some matrices and can be 

corrected by using its protocol. Proficiency is established for each species such as Cr(VI), 

methylmercury, tributyltin, and any polyisotopic species and each matrix such as water, soil, 

tissue and others. These proficiencies are to be determined using appropriate standards 

prepared to test proficiency of spiking, extraction, species separation, mass spectrometric 

operation and calculation which together constitute this method’s SIDMS protocol. A suite of 

proficiency testing materials, as well as guidelines, for the implementation of the proficiency 

testing is available from Applied Isotope Technologies (info@sidms.com). Determination of total 

element or molecule using this method’s IDMS protocol is similar to more traditional methods 

that are spiked with elements as the matrix spike or molecules in organic analytes. However, in 

this method, concentration of the species of interest is calculated directly from the isotopic 

element/molecule spike and not from calibration curves. 

 9.3 Sample quality control for preparation and analysis 

 The laboratory must also have procedures for documenting the effect of the matrix on 

method performance (precision, accuracy, method sensitivity, species conversion). At a 
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October 2012 

minimum, this should include the analysis of QC samples including background blank, 

preparation blank, rinse blank, matrix spike, duplicate, and laboratory control sample (LCS) 

and/or proficiency samples if available and were applicable for each analytical batch. A sample 

of known concentration, such as Standard Reference Material, an appropriate reference 

material or a suitable set of proficiency materials can be used as LCS. Any blank, matrix spike 

samples, and replicate samples should be subjected to the same analytical procedures (Sec. 

11.0) as those used on actual samples. 

9.3.1 Duplicate samples should be processed on a routine basis. A duplicate 

sample is a sample processed through the entire sample preparation and analytical 

procedure. A duplicate sample should be processed with each analytical batch or every 

20 samples, whichever is the greater number. A duplicate sample should be prepared for 

each matrix type (i.e., soil, sludge, water, tissue, etc.). If statistical compilations are 

desired, a sufficient number of duplicate samples should be analyzed to produce the 

desired statistical results. Consult Method 8000 for information on developing acceptance 

criteria for the duplicate. 

9.3.2 Spiked samples and/or standard reference materials and/or reference 

materials or proficiency materials (if available) should be included with each group of 

samples processed or every 20 samples, whichever is the greater number. A spiked 

sample should also be included whenever a new sample matrix is being analyzed and 

proficiency should be established for each sample matrix. For SIDMS, because the 

species may degrade or convert to other species when they are spiked into samples, low 

recovery may be observed. Thus, the low recovery does not immediately invalidate this 

method. For example, if Cr(III) is spiked into a basic solution, due to the hydrolysis of 

Cr(III) and the limited solubility of chromium hydroxide, low recovery of Cr(III) may be 

obtained. Low recovery may indicate an unfavorable matrix for preserving the 

corresponding species (Ref. 4). The conversion of one species to another should be 

calculated and recorded with the final corrected concentration. If equilibration is reached 

prior to species-loss, an isotopic ratio may still be measurable and will result in an 

acceptable species measurement. In most cases, conversion can be quantified and 

corrected. If a sample, isotopic spike of one species is completely converted into another 

species, then the matrix and/or the sample preparation procedure may be responsible for 

species conversion. This will indicate that this specific matrix can support the stability of 

only select species. The results of concentration and conversion should be recorded as 

an acceptable set of data. Species concentration and species conversion should be 

measured and recorded in the laboratory report. Speciation under this method is a 

relatively new field and additional equations and other QC, proficiency support, and 

reference materials are updated through Ref. 27. 

9.3.3 Blank samples should be prepared using the same reagents and 

quantities used in sample preparation, placed in vessels of the same type, and processed 

with the samples. Also see Sec. 7.5 for more information regarding blank samples. 

9.4 Lower Limit of Quantitation (LLOQ) check standard 

 9.4.1 The laboratory should establish the LLOQ as the lowest point of quantitation which, 

in most cases, is the lowest concentration in the calibration curve or direct calculation, such as 

Method 6800. The LLOQ is initially verified by the analysis of at least 7 replicate samples, 

spiked at the LLOQ and processed through all preparation and analysis steps of the method. 

The mean recovery and relative standard deviation of these samples provide an initial statement 

of precision and accuracy at the LLOQ. In most cases the mean recovery should be +/- 35% of 

the true value and RSD should be < 20%. In-house limits may be calculated when sufficient 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 17 Revision 1 

October 2012 

data points exist. Monitoring recovery of LLOQ over time is useful for assessing precision and 

bias. Refer to a scientifically valid and published method such as Chapter 9 of Quality 

Assurance of Chemical Measurements (Taylor 1987) or the Report of the Federal Advisory 

Committee on Detection and Quantitation Approaches and Uses in Clean Water Act Programs 

(http://water.epa.gov/scitech/methods/cwa/det/index.cfm) for calculating precision and bias for 

LLOQ. 

 9.4.2 Ongoing LLOQ verification, at a minimum, is on a quarterly basis to validate 

quantitation capability at low analyte concentration levels. This verification may be 

accomplished either with clean control material (e.g., reagent water, method blanks, Ottawa 

sand, diatomaceous earth, etc.) or a representative sample matrix (free of target compounds). 

Optimally, the LLOQ should be less than or equal to the desired regulatory action levels based 

on the stated project-specific requirements. 

10.0 CALIBRATION AND STANDARDIZATION 

10.1 IDMS calibration 

10.1.1 Follow the appropriate sections in Method 6020B to set up and tune the 

ICP-MS. Sample introduction is performed in direct aspiration mode. The following 

procedure is illustrated with the measurement of 50Cr/52Cr and 53Cr/52Cr isotope ratios. 

10.1.2 Determine the dead time (Sec. 4.3.2). Solutions prepared from reference 

material SRM 979 (Cr(NO3)3•9H2O) are used in this determination. A range of solutions of 

different concentrations should be prepared, but their concentrations do not need to be 

accurately known. Masses 50, 52 and 53, as well as masses which could affect data 

quality, should be monitored. The raw count rates for each solution are measured and 

integrated. Assume a dead time and use the equation described in Sec. 4.3.2 to correct 

the integrated counts. The dead-time-corrected counts are then used for calculating the 

isotope ratios after background subtraction. By trial and error, the dead time is determined 

to bring the isotope ratios obtained from solutions of different concentrations to a constant 

(the relative standard deviation of the isotope ratios reaches the minimum). The isotope 

ratios obtained from high counts may be excluded as gain loss may occur. 

NOTE: The concentration range of the solutions may be adjusted depending on the 

sensitivity and dynamic range of the instrument. 

NOTE: For direct aspiration mode, the dead time correction can be done either before 

or after the integration of the raw data. However, it is simpler to do the dead 

time correction after the integration. 

10.1.3 Determine the mass bias factor (Sec. 4.3.3). The mean of isotope ratios 

obtained in Sec. 10.1.2 is used for calculating the mass bias factor. The equation is 

provided in Sec. 4.3.3. The measurement of the mass bias factor must be done 

periodically between sample measurements. The interval between these measurements 

depends on the mass bias stability of the instrument. The relative difference between two 

consecutive mass bias factors should not exceed 1%. 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 18 Revision 1 

October 2012 

10.2 SIDMS calibration 

10.2.1 Follow the appropriate sections in Method 6020B to set up and tune the 

ICP-MS. Follow Sec. 10.1.2 to measure the dead time. If the calibration of the isotopeenriched spikes is required, the mass bias factors for direct aspiration mode and the 

altered isotope ratios for the spiked standards are measured at this step. The measured 

isotope ratios obtained at this step are used in the calibration of total concentrations. 

10.2.2 Determine the mass bias factor (Sec. 4.3.3). Connect the outlet of the 

chromatographic column to the nebulizer of the ICP-MS. Background blank and an 

isotopic abundance certified standard are used for the measurement of the mass bias 

factors in time resolved analysis (TRA) mode. The raw data at each point are corrected 

for dead time using the equation described in Sec. 4.3.2 and then integrated by summing 

the data across each peak. The intervals between two consecutive injections must be 

long enough for the signal to return to baseline. The integrated counts are then used to 

calculate the isotope ratios with the equation shown in Sec. 4.3.2. Apply the equation in 

Sec. 4.3.3 to calculate the mass bias factors for each isotope pair by comparing the 

measured isotope ratios to the certified isotope ratios. 

NOTE: For the TRA mode, the dead time correction must be done at each data point 

before the data integration. 

NOTE: For other ionization and mass spectrometer types such as ESI and/or MALDI 

and/or MIP ionization coupled to quadrupole, TOF and/or ion-trap mass 

spectrometers, appropriate correction protocols should be utilized. 

11.0 PROCEDURE 

11.1 IDMS 

11.1.1 Closed-vessel microwave digestion is used as an example method to 

decompose samples and to solubilize, equilibrate and stabilize the elements of interest. 

The following procedure is applicable to samples decomposed using Method 3052. Refer 

to Method 3052 for specifications of the microwave apparatus. Method 3546 is a 

microwave extraction method for organic analytes and is suited for IDMS and SIDMS of 

molecular species. Other extraction methods are available in the literature for additional 

species and matrices. Separation may be directly applied to molecular and elemental 

species that are amenable to such measurements such as water, blood, serum, plasma, 

drinks, and other samples. 

11.1.2 Prepare or purchase the isotope-enriched spike and calibrate it with the 

inverse isotope dilution mass spectrometry procedure described in Secs. 7.3 and 7.4.1. 

Isotope enriched spikes are available as commercial products for both elemental and 

molecular species from Applied Isotope Technologies, Inc. (e-mail: info@sidms.com; 

http://www.sidms.com). 

11.1.3 Weigh a representative sample to the nearest 0.001 g into an appropriate 

microwave digestion vessel equipped with a pressure relief mechanism. Spike the sample 

with the calibrated isotope-enriched spike. The concentration of the spike should be high 

enough so that only a small volume of the solution is used. Weigh the mass of the spike 

to at least three significant figures. 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 19 Revision 1 

October 2012 

11.1.4 Digest the sample according to the procedure described in Method 3052 

and/or extract the species from the sample matrix with an extraction method such as 3546, 

or separate the analytes by chromatography (see SW-846 Chapters Three and Four and 

the literature for additional sample preparation methods). 

NOTE: For filtered and acidified aqueous samples, digestion may not be required. 

Sample solutions can be directly analyzed with ICP-MS, TOF, QTOF, QQQ or 

and/or other appropriate mass spectrometers after spiking and equilibration. 

11.1.5 Measurement of the isotope ratios can be carried out using ICP-MS or 

ESI-TOF, QTOF, QQQ and/or other appropriate mass spectrometers. 

11.1.5.1 Determine the mass bias factor periodically as described in 

Sec. 10.1.3. 

11.1.5.2 Measure the isotope ratio of each sample. Flush the system 

with the rinse blank. In many cases the ideal isotope ratio is 1:1. Isotope ratios 

are ideally within the range from 0.1:1 to 10:1, except for blanks and samples with 

extremely low concentrations. Samples may be re-spiked to achieve an isotope 

ratio close to 1:1. If too high of a count rate is observed, samples must be diluted to 

avoid gain loss of the detector. Some isotope ratios can be quantified at 1:100 and 

100:1 in cases of instrument sensitivity and stability. Error Propagation Factors 

(EPF) can be calculated to optimize the ratios for quantification. 

NOTE: Unspiked solutions are used to measure the isotopic abundance of 

elements and molecules such as lithium, lead, and uranium, and 

molecular enriched ions whose isotopic abundances can vary in nature. 

11.2 SIDMS 

11.2.1 SIDMS is applicable to the quantification of elemental and molecular 

species in various sample matrices such as water, soil, sludge, tissue, food, blood, 

plasma, serum, drugs, dietary supplements, etc. Solid samples require or benefit from 

isolation/solubilization and separation of the elemental species before analysis. 

Procedures for such extraction of the species from different matrices must be specifically 

designed to minimize and measure species conversion. Extraction procedures for tissue, 

hair and bacteria are found in references (Refs. 20 through 22, respectively). The 

following procedure is an illustration of the simultaneous determination of Cr(III) and Cr(VI) 

in water samples or in soil or sediment extracts. Cr(VI) is extracted from the solid using 

Method 3060A, mercury species by Method 3200, and organic molecules by Method 3546 

and other appropriate methods (See SW-846 Chapters Three and Four). 

11.2.2 There are two ways of obtaining the isotopically enriched standards used 

in IDMS and SIDMS. Prepare the isotope-enriched spikes of each target species and 

calibrate them with inverse isotope dilution mass spectrometry as described in Sec. 7.4. 

Species-specific isotope-enriched spikes are available as commercial products from 

Applied Isotope Technologies (e-mail: info@sidms.com; http://www.sidms.com). 

11.2.3 Weigh an appropriate aliquot of the water, solid or semi-solid sample, or 

extract to the nearest 0.0001 g into a polymeric container. Spike the sample with 10 μg/g 

of 53Cr(VI) spike to a concentration so that the isotope ratio of 53Cr/52Cr in Cr(VI) will be 

approximately 1:1. Spike the sample with 50Cr(III) spike to a concentration so that the 

isotope ratios of 50Cr/52Cr in Cr(III) will also be approximately 1:1 and the species 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 20 Revision 1 

October 2012 

concentrations are suitable for measurement. Thoroughly mix the spike and the sample. 

The isotope ratios 53Cr/52Cr for samples must be within the range of 0.1:1 to 10:1, except 

for blanks or samples with extremely low concentrations. If isotope ratios are found to be 

outside these ranges, samples should be re-spiked and re-analyzed. 

NOTE: If only the Cr(VI) is of interest, the sample can be spiked only with 53Cr(VI). 

However, this is based on the assumption that only unidirectional conversion 

can occur after spiking, i.e. reduction of Cr(VI) to Cr(III). This is usually true if 

the sample is acidified to a low pH after spiking, especially for matrices 

containing reducing agents. Molecular SIDMS uses GSH as the example of 

molecular species that have unidirectional species oxidation to GSSG. 

11.2.4 Extract the species from the sample matrix (see Section 11.2.1) 

NOTE: For aqueous samples, extraction may not be required. Sample solutions can 

be directly analyzed after spiking and equilibration. Highly concentrated 

samples may need to be adjusted in spike to sample ratio and may be adjusted 

to a lower spike ratio to conserve spike or sub-sampled. Chromium ore 

processing residues (COPR) samples are a good example of high chromium 

concentration where this can be applied. 

11.2.5 If the solution is strongly basic, neutralize the sample with concentrated 

HNO3

 to avoid the hydrolysis of Cr(III). Sample preparation to preserve the molecular 

species is specific to the chemistry of the species and is performance based and depends 

on the analyses being conducted. The example of chromium species and glutathione are 

used to illustrate elemental and molecular species respectively. The sample preparation is 

dependent on the species chemistry, stoichiometry and equilibrium relationships of the 

species. 

11.2.6 Acidify the spiked samples to pH 1.7 to 2.0; under these conditions Cr is 

usually retained in solution, although there might be interconversion between Cr(III) and 

Cr(VI). The spiked samples can be stored at ≤6 °C to retard interconversion of the Cr 

species. Other methods that can slow down the transformation of the species can be 

applied as long as no interference with the isotope ratio measurement is introduced. For 

example, some soil extracts contain large concentrations of reducing agents that reduce 

Cr(VI) rapidly after acidification. To slow down the reduction, stoichiometric amounts of 

KMnO4 can be added to the sample; KMnO4 easily oxidizes the reducing matrices. 

NOTE: Studies have shown that the lower the interconversion between the species, 

the more precise the determination is (Ref. 3). Thus, efforts should be made to 

prevent or retard species interconversions. 

11.2.7 The measurement of the isotope ratios in each species can be carried out 

using ICP-MS or other equivalent mass spectrometers following the separation of the 

species using chromatography or other separation methods. The use of ion-exchange 

chromatograph coupled with ICP-MS will be illustrated as an example in the measurement 

of 50Cr/52Cr and 53Cr/52Cr isotope ratios in samples containing both Cr(III) and Cr(VI) 

species. 

11.2.7.1 Determine the mass bias factors periodically as described in 

Sec. 10.2.2. 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 21 Revision 1 

October 2012 

11.2.7.2 Measure the isotope ratios of each sample. Flush the system 

with the eluent until the signal returns to the baseline. The ideal isotope ratios for 

50Cr/52Cr in Cr(III) and 53Cr/52Cr in Cr(VI) are 1:1. Ratios between 0.1:1 and 10:1 

are also appropriate. Samples may be re-spiked to achieve an isotope ratio close 

to 1:1. If excessively high count rates are observed, samples must be diluted to 

avoid gain loss of the detector. 

NOTE: Unspiked solutions are used to measure the isotopic abundance of 

elements such as lithium, lead, and uranium, whose isotopic abundances 

can vary in nature. 

NOTE: A different set of equations and examples are required for the 

simultaneous determination of three species with correction following the 

SIDMS protocol,. One example for three mercury species can be found 

in Ref. 24 along with a version of the equations developed for three 

species. Equations for the determination of two and three species are 

included in this reference and the formats are constructed to simplify 

these calculations. New explicit and determinative equations will be 

published in the literature and updated references and technical support 

will be made available through the www.SIDMS.com website (Ref. 27). 

12.0 DATA ANALYSIS AND CALCULATIONS 

12.1 IDMS calculations 

The quantitative values must be reported in appropriate units, such as micrograms per liter 

(μg/L) for aqueous samples and milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg) for solid samples. If dilutions 

are performed, the appropriate corrections must be applied to the sample values. 

12.1.1 Calculate the isotope ratios. Calculations should include appropriate 

interference corrections (see Sec. 4.3 for data integration, dead time correction, and mass 

bias correction). 

12.1.2 The following equations are applied to the calculation of the concentration 

of the element, CSample(μg/g), in the final sample solutions: 

CSample = CX Mx

S Spike MS C = C /

















−

−

=

X

53

X

52

53/ 52

S

52

S 53/52

53

X

S S

X

R A A

A R A

W

C W C

where, CS and CX are the respective concentrations of the isotope-enriched spike and the 

analyte in the sample, in μmole/g. MS and MX are the average atomic weights of the 

isotope-enriched spike and the sample in g/mole, respectively. 53AS and 53AX are the 

atomic fractions of 53Cr for the isotope-enriched spike and sample, respectively. 52AS and 

52AX are the atomic fractions of 52Cr for the isotope-enriched spike and sample, 

respectively. Cspike is the concentration of the isotope-enriched spike in μg/g. A general 

guideline for IDMS calculations can be found in the documents of Section 13.5.4. 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 22 Revision 1 

October 2012 

NOTE: When isotope 50Cr is used, 53Cr is substituted with 50Cr in the above equations. 

12.1.3 If appropriate or required, calculate results for solids on a dry-weight 

basis as follows: 

(1) A separate determination of percent solids must be performed. 

(2) The concentrations determined in the digest are to be reported on the basis of the 

dry weight of the sample as follows: 

Concentration (dry weight)(mg/kg) = CSample

S

where, CSample = Concentration based on the wet sample (μg/g) 

12.2 SIDMS calculations 

The quantitative values must be reported in appropriate units, such as μg/L for aqueous 

samples and mg/kg for solid samples. If dilutions are performed, the appropriate corrections 

must be applied to the sample values. 

12.2.1 Calculate the isotope ratios. Calculations should include appropriate 

interference corrections, dead time correction, and mass bias correction (Sec. 4.3). 

12.2.2 The following equations are used to deconvolute the concentrations of the 

species at the time of spiking, as well as the conversion of the species after spiking: 

where, 

R

III

50/52 is the measured isotope ratio of 50Cr to 52Cr of Cr(III) in the spiked sample 

50AX is the atomic fraction of 50Cr in the sample (usually a constant in nature) 

% Solids S = 

100

( ) ( ) ( )

( ) ( ) α ( )β

α β

VI

S

VI

S

VI

X S

VI

X X

III

S

III

S

III

X S

III

X X

VI

S

VI

S

VI

X S

VI

X X

III

S

III

S

III

X S

III

III X X

A C W A C W A C W A C W

A C W A C W A C W A C W

R 52 52 52 52

50 50 50 50

50 / 52 1

1

+ − + +

+ − + +

=

( ) ( ) ( )

( ) ( ) α ( )β

α β

VI

S

VI

S

VI

X S

VI

X X

III

S

III

S

III

X S

III

X X

VI

S

VI

S

VI

X S

VI

X X

III

S

III

S

III

X S

III

III X X

A C W A C W A C W A C W

A C W A C W A C W A C W

R 52 52 52 52

53 53 53 53

53/ 52 1

1

+ − + +

+ − + +

=

( ) ( )( )

( ) ( ) α ( ) β

α β

+ + + −

+ + + −

=

1

1

52 52 52 52

50 50 50 50

50 /52 VI

S

VI

S

VI

X S

VI

X X

III

S

III

S

III

X S

III

X X

VI

S

VI

S

VI

X S

VI

X X

III

S

III

S

III

X S

III

VI X X

A C W A C W A C W A C W

A C W A C W A C W A C W

R

( ) ( )( )

( ) ( ) α ( ) β

α β

+ + + −

+ + + −

=

1

1

52 52 52 52

53 53 53 53

53/ 52 VI

S

VI

S

VI

X S

VI

X X

III

S

III

S

III

X S

III

X X

VI

S

VI

S

VI

X S

VI

X X

III

S

III

S

III

X S

III

VI X X

A C W A C W A C W A C W

A C W A C W A C W A C W

R
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 23 Revision 1 

October 2012 

Cx

III is the concentration of Cr(III) in the sample (μmole/g, unknown) 

Wx is the weight of the sample (g) 

50AsIII is the atomic fraction of 50Cr in the 50Cr(III) spike 

Cs

III is the concentration of Cr(III) in the 50Cr(III) spike (μmole/g) 

Ws

III is the weight of the 50Cr(III) spike (g) 

Cx

VI is the concentration of Cr(VI) in the sample (μmole/g, unknown) 

α is the percentage of Cr(III) oxidized to Cr(VI) after spiking (unknown) 

 β is the percentage of Cr(VI) reduced to Cr(III) after spiking (unknown) 

NOTE: The unit of the concentrations shown above is μmole/g. The conversion factor 

from μmole/g to μg/g is: M, where M is the average atomic weight of the 

element in μg/μmole (Sec. 7.4.1). The following equation can be used to 

convert the unit of the concentration. Be aware that samples with different 

isotopic abundance have different average atomic weights. 

Concentration (μmole/g) x M = Concentration (μg/g) 

NOTE: Although the species distribution of the isotopic spike is determined (Sec. 7.4), 

the above equations assume that each isotope-enriched spike is only in one 

species form to simplify the equations. This has been validated for 50Cr(III) and 

53Cr(VI) spikes prepared using the procedures described in Sec. 7.3. For other 

speciation analysis, this assumption must be verified experimentally, or the 

distribution of the species in the isotope-enriched spikes must be taken into 

account. 

NOTE: For the quantification of the single-spiked samples, the following equations are 

used: 

CX

VI

=

CS

VIWS

WX

53AS

VI

− R53/52

VI 52ASVI

R53/52

VI 52AX −

53AX













VI VI C C Sample X = MX

VI VI VI

S Spike S C C = / M
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 24 Revision 1 

October 2012 

where Cs

VI and CxVI are the respective concentrations of the isotope-enriched spike and the 

analyte in the sample, in μmole/g. Ms

VI and MX are the average atomic weight of the 

isotope-enriched spike and the sample in g/mole, respectively. 53As

VI and 53AX are the 

atomic fraction of 53Cr for the isotope-enriched spike and sample, respectively. 52As

VI and 

52AX are the atomic fractions of 52Cr for the isotope-enriched spike and sample, 

respectively. Cspike

VI is the concentration of the isotope-enriched spike in μg/g. 

NOTE: When isotope 50Cr is used, 53Cr is substituted with 50Cr in the above equations. 

12.2.3 A computer program such as a spreadsheet can be developed to solve 

this set of second power, four variable equations. Solutions for the four unknowns, CX

III

, 

CX

VI

, α and β are required, and can be found from various mathematical approaches. An 

iterative approach was originally used to solve for the four unknowns (Refs. 11, 12, and 

28), but an explicit, deterministic solution has since been developed. The explicit, 

determinative solution method eliminates the need for initialization, and recognizes the 

conditions under which a unique solution will be obtained. 

To implement the explicit, deterministic solution method, it is helpful to first express 

the four equations in simplified notation: 

III VI

1 x 1 1 x 2

1 III VI

2 x 3 2 x 4

( C )(1 ) ( C )

( C )(1 ) ( C )

A B A B R

A B A B

α β

α β

+ − + +

=

+ − + +

III VI

3 x 5 3 x 6

2 III VI

2 x 3 2 x 4

( C )(1 ) ( C )

( C )(1 ) ( C )

A B A B R

A B A B

α β

α β

+ − + +

=

+ − + +

III VI

1 x 1 1 x 2

3 III VI

2 x 3 2 x 4

( C ) ( C )(1 )

( C ) ( C )(1 )

A B A B R

A B A B

α β

α β

+ + + −

=

+ + + −

III VI

3 x 5 3 x 6

4 III VI

2 x 3 2 x 4

( C ) ( C )(1 )

( C ) ( C )(1 )

A B A B R

A B A B

α β

α β

+ + + −

=

+ + + −

These are the exact equations presented in 12.2.2, expressed in terms of thirteen known 

quantities: 

• Four ion intensity ratios, corrected for dead-time and mass-bias: 

{ } { }

III III VI VI

1 2 3 4 50/52 53/52 50/52 53/52 R R R R , , , R ,R ,R ,R = . 

• The three sample weights of each chromium isotope, using naturally occurring isotope 

proportions Wx

: { } { }

50 52 53

1 2 3 x x x x x x A A A , , A W , A W , A W = . 

• The amounts of 50Cr(III), 52Cr(III) and 53Cr(III) in the Cr(III) spike: 

{ } { }

50 III III 52 III III 53 III III

1 3 5 s s s s s s B B B , , A N , A N , A N = , as well as the amounts of 50Cr(VI), 52Cr(VI) 

and 53Cr(VI) in the Cr(VI) spike: { } { }

50 VI VI 52 VI VI 53 VI VI

2 4 6 s s s s s s B B B , , A N , A N , A N = . If III Ws

 is 

the weight of the Cr(III) spike, and III Cs

 is the concentration of Cr(III) in that spike, then 

III III III N =W C s s s . 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 25 Revision 1 

October 2012 

Solving equations (1)–(4) for the unknowns α , β , 

III Cx

, and VI Cx, gives the following explicit 

solutions: 

2 4 2 2 3 3 4 3 6 3 2 6 1 4 4 1 1 3 1 2 2 1 3 3

5 1 5 1 2 2 3 1 1 4 3 2 3 2 2 2 2 4 1 6 1 6 1 2

( )

)

R A B B R R (

B B R R B

B R A B A B R A A B A B A B R A B A

A R A B A B A A R A B A A B A R B B K R

α + − + − −

− + + − + −

=

+ − +

− −

 

1 2 2 1 3 1 3 3 5 1 5 1 2 2 3 1 1 3 3 3 3 1 4 2

4 3 1 5 3 2 5 1 2 4 2 2 3 3 4 3 6 3 2 6 1 4 4 1

( )(

)

R A A B A A R A B A B A B A R A

B A R A A R A A B A R A A B A

B B R B B R R B

R B B B B R B B R K

β − + + − − − −

+ + − − + − + − +

=

 

3 5 1 4 3 1 5 2 1 4 1 3 2 3

3 2 2 3 3 1 3 1 4 1 2 4 2 1

III Cx

R R R R

R R R A R

B R B B B R B R R B

R A A A R R A R A

+ − +

=

− + + −

− −

−

 

3 1 4 2 3 2

3 2 2 3 3 1 3 1 4 1 2 4

VI 6 4 4 2 2

x

1

1 4

2

6 C

R R R R

R

B R B B B R B R R B

R A A A R R R R R R A A A

+ − +

=

− + + −

− −

−

 . 

The common value of K in the denominators of the solutions for α and β is given by: 

1 1 1 2 3 2 2 1 3 2 3 4 2 K d = ( )( )( )( ) A R A A R A A − − − − R A A R A , 

where 

1 11 21 42 32 22 12 31 41 d = − − − − − ( )( ) ( )( ) K K K K K K K K

and 

1 1 3 2 1 4

11 12

1 1 2 1 1 2

B R B B R B K K

A R A A R A

− −

= =

− −

5 2 3 6 2 4

21 22

3 2 2 3 2 2

B R B B R B K K

A R A A R A

− −

= =

− −

1 3 3 2 3 4

31 32

1 3 2 1 3 2

B R B B R B K K

A R A A R A

− −

= =

− −

5 4 3 6 4 4

41 42

3 4 2 3 4 2

B R B B R B K K

A R A A R A

− −

= =

− −

 . 

If the coefficients Kij , 1 4 ≤ ≤i and 1 2 ≤ ≤j , exist and 1d ≠ 0 , then the crossover proportions 

and concentrations obtained from equations (5)–(8) exist and are unique. 

NOTE: This method does not require the use of calibration curves, and that the set of explicit 

solutions for three (or more) species is analogous to the above (albeit more lengthy). 

The following mathematics is a way to solve the equations iteratively. This method 

was the original iterative method and can now be confirmed with the previously introduced 

explicit approach. To assist the analyst, additional information, technical support and 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 26 Revision 1 

October 2012 

1 1

2 2

1 1

2 2

A C

A C

 = 

A B 

A B 

β and 

analyst training have been made available for both iterative and explicit solutions (Refs. 

11, 27, and 28). 

To make the expression simpler, assume 

VI

S

VI

S

VI

S

III

S

III

S

III

S

VI

X X

VI

X

III

X X

III CX W = N , C W = N , C W = N , C W = N

At the beginning of the iteration, arbitrary values can be assigned to NX

VI and α. For 

example, both of them are assigned as 0s. Now we need to know the expression of NX

III

and β. After careful derivation, we can get the following equations: 

( )( ) [ ( ) ( )]

( ) ( ) α

α β

= − + −

− − + + − +

R A A N 1

1 R A A N R A N A N A N A N

III

S

III

S

III 50

S

III 52

50/52

VI

S

VI

S

VI 50

X X

VI 50

S

VI

S

VI 52

X X

III 52

50/52

III

X X

50

X

III 52

50/52

( )( ) [ ( ) ( )]

( ) ( ) α

α β

= − + −

− − + + − +

R A A N 1

1 R A A N R A N A N A N A N

III

S

III

S

III 53

S

III 52

53/52

VI

S

VI

S

VI 53

X X

VI 53

S

VI

S

VI 52

X X

III 52

53/52

III

X X

53

X

III 52

53/52

These equations can be rewritten as: 

The solutions are: 

Use these two values in the following equations to solve NX

VI and α 

( )( ) [ ( ) ( )]

( ) ( ) β

β α

= − + −

− − + + − +

R A A N 1

1 R A A N R A N A N A N A N

VI

S

VI

S

VI 50

S

VI 52

50 / 52

III

S

III

S

III 50

X X

III 50

S

III

S

III 52

X X

VI 52

50 / 52

VI

X X

50

X

VI 52

50 / 52

( ) 1 − β R53/52

VI 52AX −

53 ( AX ) NX

VI + R53/52VI 52AX NXIII +

52AS

III NSIII ( ) −

53AX NX

III +

53AS

III NSIII ( )









α

= −R53/52

VI 52ASVI +

53AS

VI ( ) NSVI ( ) 1 − β

Rewrite the equation as: 

III

1 1 X 1

III

2 2 X 2

 + = A B N C

 + = A B N C

β

β







1 1

III 2 2

X

1 1

2 2

C B

C B

N = 

A B 

A B 

VI

3 3 X 3

VI

4 4 X 4

 + = A B N C

 + = A B N C

α

α






SW-846 Update V 6800 - 27 Revision 1 

October 2012 

3 3

4 4

3 3

4 4

A C

A C

 = 

A B 

A B 

α and 

again: 

 

Repeating the calculation, the variables Nx

III , NxVI

 , α and β will converge to constant 

values, and these values are the solution of the equations. 

 

12.2.4 If conversion is complete from one species to another, then the starting 

samples may be re-spiked with the isotope-enriched spikes and analyzed, with a particular 

attention to retard the conversion of the species, if possible. As long as the isotope ratio 

can be determined, the SIDMS protocol will correct for the conversion even if extensive 

conversion has occurred. If 100% conversion occurs, this is the result of an active matrix. 

This indicates that the species converted is highly unstable in that matrix under the 

extraction procedure chosen. 

12.2.5 If appropriate or required, calculate results for solids on a dry-weight 

basis as described in Sec. 12.1.3. 

12.3 Examples, calculation aids, and help documents for SIDMS are available as 

referenced in the web (Refs. 11, 27, and 28). 

12.4 Results must be reported in units commensurate with their intended use and all 

dilutions must be taken into account when computing final results. 

13.0 METHOD PERFORMANCE 

13.1 Performance data and related information are provided in SW-846 methods only as 

examples and guidance. The data do not represent required performance criteria for users of 

the methods. Instead, performance criteria should be developed on a project-specific basis, 

and the laboratory should establish in-house QC performance criteria for the application of this 

method. These performance data are not intended to be and must not be used as absolute QC 

acceptance criteria for purposes of laboratory accreditation.

13.2 Performance and use of IDMS as a definitive method in standard reference material 

certification has been well established in practice and in the literature. Review and discussion 

articles are referenced for performance criteria of this highly accurate method (Refs. 1, 9, and 

10). IDMS has also been applied to analyze nutritional supplements where toxic materials were 

reported to contaminate zinc dietary supplements with antimony in 2010. Thirteen batches of 

the products and the raw material used as ingredients and the contaminated bottles were tested 

by Method 6800. Testing revealed that four out of the thirteen batches were not contaminated. 

The results were independently tested and confirmed by the manufacturer. Quantitative 

measurements of incoming raw material and final products tested with Method 6800 IDMS were 

found to be superior to less accurate results performed by other methods which were replaced 

by the manufacturer with Method 6800 using ICP-MS (Ref. 33). Table 16a and 16b show IDMS 

concentrations of tested ingredients in batches of recalled dietary supplement prescribed and 

distributed to hospitals. 

3 3

VI 4 4

X

3 3

4 4

C B

C B

N = 

A B 

A B 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 28 Revision 1 

October 2012 

IDMS by Method 6800 has been shown to be suitable for the analysis of highly toxic materials. 

Glyphosate is the active ingredient of a popular herbicide and is also being used as surrogate 

for VX nerve agent. I-Spike is a novel solid phase extraction (SPE) technique in which the 

isotopically enriched spike is preloaded onto a SPE column prior to the introduction of the 

sample. I-Spike solid-phase sorbent cartridges were tested to provide the placement of a 

molecular toxic analyte directly on the SPE column (pre-loaded enriched spikes) for safety and 

quality control purposes. Table 17 demonstrates the equivalent results comparing preequilibrating the spike with the sample prior to loading on the SPE column (liquid phase) or 

loading the spike and sample individually on the SPE column (solid phase) for added safety of 

the analyst (Ref. 34). 

13.3 Accuracy, precision, and use of Method 6800 SIDMS in quantifying and correcting 

for species inter-transformations are shown in Tables 1 through 15, 18. Table 2(A) and Table 

2(B) compare data between Method 6800 and Method 7196 for Cr(VI) in chromium ore process 

residues (COPR) and soil extracts. Table 1 demonstrates the ability of this method to correct 

for transformations of both Cr(VI) and Cr(III) in aqueous samples. Table 1 also displays the 

magnitude of errors that may be expected when using other methods unable to track and 

determine the conversion of these species. Table 2(A) indicates a sample type where double 

spikes were added into the same extract (spiked after extraction with Method 3060A) used for 

determination of Cr(VI) with Method 7196 and then analyzed with Method 6800. In this case, 

both the traditional 3060A/7196 methods and 3060A/6800 methods produced statistically similar 

data indicating that transformation had already occurred and confirmation between these two 

analytical methods was observed (Refs. 8 and 12). Whereas Table 2(B) indicates a situation 

where one set of samples were extracted with Method 3060A and analyzed with Method 7196 

and another set of sub-samples of the same samples were double spiked before extraction with 

Method 3060A and then analyzed with Method 6800. In this case, statistically significant 

different results were obtained from both the traditional 3060A/7196 and the 3060A/6800 

methods (Refs. 3 and 12). Method 6800 provided the ability to correct for the transformation of 

Cr(III) to Cr(VI) using the mathematical protocol described in Sec.12.2.3. This is also an 

example of how Method 6800 can be used as a diagnostic tool to isolate the origin of speciesshifts in sample handling, and in analytical preparation steps of methods. Recently, NIST has 

released a standard reference material (SRM) where, according to the SRM’s certificate of 

analysis, the only true value for the species of Cr(VI) was obtained by EPA Method 6800 and 

that the measurements made by EPA Methods 7199 and 7196A were in error by as much as 

40% (Refs. 37 and 38). The European Committee for Standardization has made a similar 

declaration (signed by all EU member experts) accepting Method 6800 as the preferred legally 

defensible method for Cr(VI) measurement (Ref. 39).

The SIDMS analysis technique, applied to difficult environmental sample matrices, 

demonstrates the advantages of having the capability to identify and understand the 

transformations and method perturbations of dynamic species (Refs. 13 and 14). The study 

described in Table 3 demonstrates how Method 6800 can be used to field-spike reactive 

samples that would have degraded by the time they reached the analytical laboratory. Table 3 

analytically evaluates and validates the field application of chemical spiking at the sampling site 

and permits evaluation of the process involving ferrous iron and chromate in the treatment or 

remediation of hexavalent chromium runoff by using another waste by-product, acid mine 

drainage (AMD) (Ref. 14). Figure 6 demonstrates the analysis of the isolated fly ash runoff and 

the waste stream mixed with the second waste stream of AMD. These data in Table 3 and 

Figure 6 as cited in the literature (Ref. 14) demonstrate the accuracy and precision of both a 

stable and a less stable set of samples. It was noted in Ref. 14 that applying Method 6800 at the 

time of sampling the small amount of residual Cr(VI) left in the sample for equilibration was 

enough to make quantitative measurements of Cr(VI). This can be an effective solution to 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 29 Revision 1 

October 2012 

circumventing holding time issues. When a sample is highly reactive, implementing Method 

6800 in the field to establish the species content at the time of sampling is an effective way of 

preserving the quantitative and qualitative species content. 

Tables 4(A) and 4(B) demonstrate how Method 6800 can be used as a diagnostic tool to 

observe whether chromium species (and other species) transformation occurs during or after 

extraction steps. It is reported in the literature that there is a possibility of precipitation of Pb as 

PbCrO4 during acidification. In order to determine if there is a bias introduced for Cr(VI) during 

acidification, the extracts were analyzed directly after acidification, without filtration and after 

filtration. From Table 4(A), it is observed that the results obtained for the same extract aliquots 

after performing filtration completely agree with those obtained from direct analysis of unfiltered 

samples after neutralization (Ref. 13). In Method 6800, loss of some portion of an already 

equilibrated sample does not cause an error, as mathematical basis of quantitation does not 

depend on recovery of the analyte but only on the isotopic ratio (Refs. 13 and 18). Standard 

calibration is adversely affected by the loss of analyte. The SIDMS, on the other hand, is 

unaffected by loss of analyte after isotopic species equilibration. From Table 4(B), it is 

observed, following extraction, that the determination of Cr(VI) is the same for three different 

instrumental calibrations. In most cases, similar results were obtained by analyzing the same 

extract using external calibration, IDMS (single spike after extraction) or SIDMS (double spike 

after extraction). This is because the equilibration chemistry, including species transformation, 

usually takes place during extraction of the sample. It can be observed from Table 4(A) and 

4(B) that substantial transformation of Cr(III) to Cr(VI) can take place during extraction of the 

sample, and transformations generally occur nominally during post-extraction manipulation. 

Table 5 demonstrates the correction necessary in some soil samples where the sample 

matrix causes a bias in more traditional methods. These bias corrections demonstrate the 

ability of Method 6800 to identify and correct for the degradation and transformation of species 

during the measurement process. Traditional methods such as Methods 7196, 7196A and 7199 

are not able to correct for Cr(VI) transformations which may increase or decrease during 

Method 3060A extraction. Transformations occurring in transportation, storage, extraction, and 

sample preparation that have changed the species are not accounted for and all errors add to 

create biases that are undetectable. Method 6800 corrects for transformations occurring during 

extraction and other targeted steps when the enriched isotopic spike(s) are added to include 

those step including in the field at collection. 

The SIDMS approach in Method 6800 was applied in the simultaneous determination of 

chromium species in food supplement, in this case biological samples, by an independent 

laboratory (Ref. 22). The Institute of National Measurement Standards, National Research 

Council of Canada has independently validated Method 6800 on brewers’ yeast where they 

found Cr(VI) converting to Cr(III) and vise versa, and concluded that the SIDMS method 

enabled the accurate determination of both Cr(VI) and Cr(III) under these conditions. This work 

is summarized in Table 6 which was abstracted with permission from the author in Ref. 22. This 

study concluded that despite the presence of significant bi-directional transformation of 

chromium species during sample preparation, an accurate simultaneous determination of both 

species in yeast was made possible through the application of the SIDMS method (Table 6). 

 

13.4 The SIDMS analysis technique has been successfully been applied for the 

determination of other species. For example, methylmercury and inorganic mercury have been 

successfully determined in biological, human and other tissues, and in soils. Table 7 

demonstrates concentration measurements in soil samples (Refs. 15 and 16). Method 6800 

has also been applied as a diagnostic tool to determine the concentration and to identify 

analytical biases caused by species transformations using the Microwave-Assisted Extraction 

methods such as Method 3200, used in mercury species extraction. The SIDMS protocol of 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 30 Revision 1 

October 2012 

Method 6800 provides the ability to measure the concentration of species and to evaluate if 

species transformations have occurred. One set of samples was double-spiked before 

extraction and another aliquot of the same sample was double-spiked after extraction. It was 

observed that this extraction method did not alter the species or permit them to transform in this 

matrix, using this extraction protocol. The deconvoluted concentrations for each species (Table 

7) obtained from both sets of extractions overlap at the 95% CI and are statistically 

indistinguishable (Ref. 15). 

In a separate study, the SIDMS protocol was used as a diagnostic tool for the evaluation 

of different mercury speciation methods published in the literature and in Method 3200 (Refs. 16 

and 17). From this study, it was observed that two of the five literature methods were highly 

prone to form inorganic mercury from methylmercury during extraction. These two published 

methods converted approximately ~100% of the methylmercury to inorganic mercury, including 

the spiked isotope enriched methylmercury. In another literature method, as much as 45% 

methylmercury was converted into inorganic mercury during extraction. Method 3200 and a 

sonication-based extraction method induced very little or no conversion of methylmercury to 

inorganic mercury (Table 8) (Ref. 17). Method 6800 has also been used to validate other 

speciation method. For example, if used in conjunction with Method 3200, Method 6800 

corrects for matrix-induced and method-induced transformations of species, thus permitting the 

evaluation of Method 3200 and other speciation methods (Refs. 15, 17, 20, and 21). 

The SIDMS protocol of Method 6800 along with Method 3200 was applied for the 

determination of mercury species in tissue samples (Ref. 20) (Table 9). After analyzing several 

fish tissue reference materials (ERM-CE464, DOLT-3, NIST-1946) with better than 20% 

precision, approximately 20% of the inorganic mercury was converted to methylmercury during 

analysis and methylmercury converted to inorganic mercury species. Here, the creation of the 

species of interest from inorganic mercury would be undetected without the ability of Method 

6800 to evaluate and correct for the species-conversions in these speciated measurements. 

The SIDMS method was applied as a diagnostic tool to evaluate eight published literature 

methods for mercury speciation in human hair (IAEA-085) (Ref. 21). From this study, it was 

observed that most of the methods induced minor or no statistically significant species 

transformation during extraction. However, two of the eight methods induced larger amounts of 

species transformation from methylmercury to inorganic mercury. One method transformed 

approximately 90% and the other transformed almost 20% of methylmercury to inorganic 

mercury during extraction (Table 10). Because an IAEA reference material was used in this 

study, the reference value was available for validation of all methods. The inorganic and 

methylmercury concentrations were obtained by the SIDMS protocol of Method 6800 as were 

the amount of inorganic mercury converted into methylmercury. The correction for 

methylmercury and inorganic mercury conversion was also accomplished. Total mercury was 

determined mathematically by adding inorganic and methylmercury. Without conversion 

correction, the accurate concentration measurement cannot be assured. 

In Ref. 30, three mercury species were extracted using Method 3200 and measured 

individually while others were grouped as discussed in Method 3200. After the removal of the 

extractable mercury species, the remaining mercury species were spiked collectively and 

measured as a group. Ref. 30 demonstrates the ability of Method 6800 to correct for species 

transformations as much as 80% and obtain mass balance, after analysis. Mass balance simply 

requires addition of all species forms in a sample to equal to the sum of all related species. In 

this case, mass balance was achieved when all the mercury species that are collectively or 

individually present in crude oil were accounted for. 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 31 Revision 1 

October 2012 

Ref. 31 and Table 14 show the application of SIDMS to human blood SRM. Here, 

inorganic, methyl and ethyl mercury species from air, food and water contamination are 

measured. Interspecies conversions of each of these species are calculated and corrected for. 

Through the analysis of an analytical reference material (ERMOCE464, Tuna Fish), Ref. 32 

demonstrates that once the equilibration is achieved in the extraction step, incomplete 

extraction of the species does not affect accuracy. Ref. 30 describes the way existing methods 

in SW-846 Chapters Three and Four, and the literature may be used to implement 6800, along 

with other methods by adding the enriched species during sample preparation to overcome 

errors such as recovery. 

 

 The SIDMS protocol can also be used successfully to determine the concentration of one 

or more analytes in the sample where species conversion, degradation and/or incomplete 

separation may have taken place before or during analysis (Refs. 2, 3, 5-8, 11-32, and 34-40). 

Additional equations and mathematical manipulations required for the determination of three 

simultaneous species have been developed and published. The first mathematical solutions for 

SIDMS were iterative. In addition to iterative equations, new explicit and deterministic SIMDS 

solution for three species analysis has been developed, published and is available in 6800 and 

Ref. 28. The explicit and determinative equations were developed for mission-critical 

applications, such as homeland defense and homeland security, where the detection method is 

required to perform predictable precision and accuracy to obtain actionable data in the field 

under safety scenarios. For mathematical solutions using three simultaneous species equations, 

tutorials and calculation aids, you are referred to the references, web sites and related 

publications cited in Refs. 24, 27, 32, and 35-40. 

 SIDMS is a general application for the detection of active species that may transform 

during sample collection, storage, shipping, preparation, analysis and other manipulations. In 

Figures 8 and 9, and Table 18 (Refs. 21, 34, 35, 36, 39, 40, and 41), glutathione, one of the 

most ubiquitous anti-toxin species in the human body is quantified in the oxidized and reduced 

form, together with the conjugated toxicant species such as inorganic and methyl mercury using 

ESI-QTOF-MS. This type of combined biological and inorganic quantitation is now being applied 

to autism and other medical research. In Ref. 35, the application of Method 6800 with MALDIQTOF-MS demonstrates that glutathione and conjugated mercury species are quantifiable by 

applying the SIDMS equations to data generated with either of the commonly used ionization 

sources (ESI and MALDI)(Ref. 35, 42). Ref. 41 demonstrates that ESI-ion trap instruments can 

make the same qualitative measurements of glutathione with toxicants. However, quantitation is 

not possible without direct isotopic ratios as a calibration curve of glutathione with toxicants is 

not feasible. Figure 10 and Refs. 40 and 42 demonstrate the quantitative SIDMS analysis of 

sodium azide which is a toxicant and an explosive that is included with the air bags in 

automobiles. Lead azide is a primary component of primers in munitions and a toxicant in 

water. It is difficult to analyze sodium azide by GC-MS as it is not readily ionized. Method 6800 

demonstrates the quantitative measurement on a TOF-MS directly without calibration curves 

using a mathematical determination. False positives do not occur in Method 6800 since these 

quantitative isotopic ratios are not achievable unless both the natural and isotopic forms of the 

analyte are present. Here, incomplete extraction did not affect accuracy with Method 6800. Also 

adduct formation due to sodium or other compounds in the sample matrix do not require matrix 

matching as all adduct ratios provided the same numerical concentration of the solution 

indicating that equilibration with the sample was achieved. Sodium azide (Figure 10 and Refs. 

42 and 40), potassium cyanide, toxicants and other difficult analytes in molecular and ionic 

forms were tested for homeland security and environmental health assessment purposes. All 

requested priority toxins (including those that could not be assessed by conventional field 

methods) and explosives were successfully quantified in a similar manner. Analytical results of 

these analytes (Ref. 42) were selected from a group of analytes generally classified as 

Chemical, Biological, Radioactive, Nuclear, and Explosive (CBRNE) agents. Details of these 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 32 Revision 1 

October 2012 

tests included in this document exist as “task reports” provided to US Air Force. Portions of 

these reports may be obtained from info@sidms.com (www.sidms.com), with prior request and 

approval. 

 

 The IDMS protocol can be used to determine simultaneously elemental concentrations as 

total elemental concentrations using sample decomposition methods such as Method 3052. An 

example of such IDMS analysis is provided for grounded and pulverized electronic components 

and circuit boards. The European environmental regulations referred to as Reduction of 

Hazardous Substances (RoHS), Waste, Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) and 

Registration; Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) require total and 

speciated analyses. Table 11 demonstrates total elemental analysis by IDMS using Method 

3052 microwave-enhanced sample decomposition where Cd-112, Cr-50, Pb-206 and Hg-199 

isotopes were added into the sample. IDMS analysis was accomplished using a commercially 

available ICP-MS and total elemental content is reported in Table 11 (Ref. 26). Chromium 

species can be determined as described in Sec. 13.3 to complete the analysis requirements 

under the European RoHS regulations. The concentration of Cr(VI) was negligible in these 

specific samples as measured by Method 6800. 

 Molecular SIDMS protocols are demonstrated as examples by Refs. 34, 35, and 36 where 

molecular species such as reduced and oxidized glutathione are the molecular examples used 

to illustrate the SIDMS deconvolution of transformations of molecular species such as peptides 

and proteins in the immune system. These molecular species measure the red blood cell 

concentration of reduced and oxidized glutathione (GSH and GSSG, respectively) and the ratio 

of these species that is an indication of the function of the immune system and their ability to 

detoxify toxicants. Like Cr(VI) the GSH and GSSG must be spiked during the sampling of the 

blood and before shipment to the laboratory to make possible the accurate quantification of 

GSH and GSSG species in the blood sample. These SIDMS molecular measurements use 

specific sample preparation and separation specific to these species. The above equations 

have an almost exact adaptation of the algorithms for the Cr(III) and Cr(VI) calculated examples 

in sections 7.3.1 and in example calculations section 12.2. 

13.5 The following documents may provide additional guidance and insight on the 

elemental and molecular isotope ratio measurement using ICP-MS, ESI-QTOF and ESI-QQQ, 

respectively: 

13.5.1 K. E. Jarvis, A. L. Gray and R. S. Houk, Handbook of Inductively Coupled 

Plasma Mass Spectrometry; Blackie Academic & Professional: London, U.K. 1992, p-315. 

13.5.2 G. P. Russ III, J. M. Bazan, Spectrochim. Acta, Part B 1987, 42B, 49- 62. 

13.5.3 H. E. Taylor, Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry: Practice 

and Techniques, Academic Press: San Diego, CA, USA, 2001, p-48. 

13.5.4 M. Sargent, R. Harte and C. Harrington, Guidelines for Achieving High 

Accuracy in Isotope Dilution Mass Spectrometry, The Royal Society of Chemistry: 

Cambridge, UK, 2002. 

13.5.5 “Characterization of waste – State of the art document – Chromium VI 

specification in solid matrices” PD CEN/TR 14589:2003, British Standards, EU 

publication “International Standards Correspondence Index, Technical Report CEN 

Technical Committee CEN/TC 292, European Committee for Standardization, 

2003. 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 33 Revision 1 

October 2012 

13.5.6 The web sites: 

http://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/hazwaste/test/new-meth.htm contains Method 6800

and www.sampleprep.duq.edu and www.sidms.com, contain SIDMS/Method 6800 

analysis aids, tutorials, update information and applications (Refs. 27, 28, 24, 35, 

36, and 42). 

 

Acknowledgement and Disclaimer:

Some of the work and data in this document associated with homeland security and homeland 

defense were supported by the Headquarters of the US Air Force Surgeon General under 

awards No.FA7014-07-0014 and No.FA7014-08-C-0029. The opinions interpretations, 

conclusions and recommendations are those of the author and not necessarily endorsed by the 

US Air Force. 

14.0 POLLUTION PREVENTION 

14.1 Pollution prevention encompasses any technique that reduces or eliminates the 

quantity and/or toxicity of waste at the point of generation. Numerous opportunities for pollution 

prevention exist in laboratory operations. The EPA has established a preferred hierarchy of 

environmental management techniques that places pollution prevention as the management 

option of first choice. Whenever feasible, laboratory personnel should use pollution prevention 

techniques to address their waste generation. When wastes cannot be feasibly reduced at the 

source, the Agency recommends recycling as the next best option. 

14.2 For information about pollution prevention that may be applicable to laboratories 

and research institutions consult Less is Better: Laboratory Chemical Management for Waste 

Reduction, a free publication available from the American Chemical Society (ACS), Committee 

on Chemical Safety, 

http://portal.acs.org/portal/fileFetch/C/WPCP_012290/pdf/WPCP_012290.pdf. 

15.0 WASTE MANAGEMENT 

The Environmental Protection Agency requires that laboratory waste management 

practices be conducted consistent with all applicable rules and regulations. The Agency urges 

laboratories to protect the air, water, and land by minimizing and controlling all releases from 

hoods and bench operations, complying with the letter and spirit of any sewer discharge permits 

and regulations, and by complying with all solid and hazardous waste regulations, particularly 

the hazardous waste identification rules and land disposal restrictions. For further information 

on waste management, consult The Waste Management Manual for Laboratory Personnel 

available from the American Chemical Society at the address listed in Sec. 14.2. 

16.0 REFERENCES 

1. J. D. Fasset and P. J. Paulsen, "Isotope Dilution Mass Spectrometry," Anal. Chem. 1989, 

61(10), 643A-649A. 

2. H. M. Kingston, "Method of Speciated Isotope Dilution Mass Spectrometry," US Patent 

Number: 5,414,259, 1995. 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 34 Revision 1 

October 2012 

3. D. Huo and H. M. Kingston, "Correction of Species Transformations in the Analysis of 

Cr(VI) in Solid Environmental Samples Using Speciated Isotope Dilution Mass 

Spectrometry," Anal. Chem. 2000, 72(20), 5047-5054. 

4. B. R. James, J. C. Petura, R. J. Vitale and G. R. Mussoline, "Hexavalent Chromium 

Extraction from Soils: A Comparison of Five Methods," Environ. Sci. Tech. 1995, 29(9), 

2377-2381. 

5. H. M. Kingston, D. Huo, Y. Lu and S. Chalk, "Accuracy in Species Analysis. Speciated 

Isotope Dilution Mass Spectrometry (SIDMS) Exemplified by the Evaluation of Chromium 

Species," Spectrochim. Acta, Part B: Atomic Spectroscopy, 1998, 53B(2), 299-309. 

6. D. Huo, H. M. Kingston and B. Larget, “Application of Isotope Dilution in Elemental 

Speciation: Speciated Isotope Dilution Mass Spectrometry (SIDMS),” In: Comprehensive 

Analytical Chemistry, J. A. Caruso, K. L. Sutton and K. L. Ackley (eds.), Vol. 33 (Elemental 

Speciation: New Approaches for Trace Element Analysis), Elsevier, New York, USA, 2000, 

p-277-313. 

7. H. M. Kingston, D. Huo, S. Chalk and P. Walter, "The Accurate Determination of Species 

by Speciated Isotope Dilution Mass Spectrometry: Exemplified by the Evaluation of 

Chromium (VI) in Soil," The Twelfth Annual Waste Testing & Quality Assurance 

Symposium; Washington, DC, July 23-26, 1996, 112-119. 

8. D. Huo, Y. Lu and H. M. Kingston, "Determination and Correction of Analytical Biases and 

Study on Chemical Mechanisms in the Analysis of Cr(VI) in Soil Samples Using EPA 

Protocols," Environ. Sci. Tech., 1998, 32(21), 3418-3423. 

9. G. N. Bowers, Jr., J. D. Fassett and E. V. White, "IDMS and the National Reference 

System: Accuracy Transfer in Clinical Chemistry," Anal. Chem., 1993, 65(12), 475 - 479. 

10. L. J. Moore, H. M. Kingston and T. J. Murphy, "The Use of Isotope Dilution Mass 

Spectrometry for the Certification of Standard Reference Materials," Environ. Intern., 1984, 

10(2), 169-173. 

11. H. M. ‘Skip’ Kingston, D. Huo, G. M. M. Rahman, and P. Walter, SamplePrep Web 

[Homepage of SamplePrep Web], Available: http://www.sampleprep.duq.edu/, referenced 

2011. 

12. D. Huo, “The Development of Methods in Speciated Isotope Dilution Mass Spectrometry 

(SIDMS) for Elemental Speciation of Chromium in Environmental Samples Using LC-ICPMS,” Doctoral Dissertation, Duquesne University, July 30, 1999. 

13. G. M. M. Rahman, H. M. Skip Kingston, T. G. Towns, R. J. Vitale and K. R. Clay, 

“Determination of hexavalent chromium by using speciated isotope-dilution mass 

spectrometry after microwave speciated extraction of environmental and other solid 

materials,” Anal. Bioanal. Chem., 2005, 382, 1111-1120. 

14. H. M. “Skip” Kingston, R. Cain, D. Huo and G. M. M. Rahman, “Determination and 

evaluation of hexavalent chromium in power plant coal combustion by-products and costeffective environmental remediation solutions using acid mine drainage,” J. Environ. 

Monit., 2005, 7, 899-905. 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 35 Revision 1 

October 2012 

15. G. M. M. Rahman and H. M. ‘Skip’ Kingston, “Development of a microwave-assisted 

extraction method and isotopic validation of mercury species in soils and sediments,” J. 

Anal. At. Spectrom., 2005, 20, 183-191. 

16. G. M. M. Rahman, H. M. ‘Skip’ Kingston, John Kern, Sarah W. Hartwell, Ramond F. 

Anderson and Shen-yi Yang, “Inter-laboratory Validation of EPA Method 3200 for mercury 

species analysis using prepared soil reference materials,” J. Applied Organometallic 

Chem., 2005, 19, 301-307. 

17. G. M. M. Rahman and H. M. ‘Skip’ Kingston, “Application of Speciated Isotope Dilution 

Mass Spectrometry to Evaluate Extraction Methods for Determining Mercury Speciation in 

Soils and Sediments,” Anal. Chem., 2004, 76, 3548-3555. 

18. H. M. Kingston, “Speciated isotope dilution mass spectrometry of reactive species and 

related methods,” US Patent Number 6 790 673 B1, 2004 and PCT Int. Appl. January 28, 

1999, Patent No. WO 9939198. 

19. H. M. Skip Kingston, U.S. Patent Number 6,974,951 B1, “Automated In-Process Ratio 

Mass Spectrometry” Dec 13, 2005. 

20. L. Hinojosa Reyes, G. M. M. Rahman, H. M. Skip Kingston, Robust microwave-assisted 

extraction protocol for determination of total mercury and methylmercury in fish tissues, 

Analytica Chemica Acta, 631, 121-128, 2009. 

21. G. M. M. Rahman, T. Fahrenholz and H. M. Skip Kingston, “Application of Speciated 

Isotope Dilution Mass Spectrometry to Evaluate Methods for Efficiencies, Recoveries, and 

Quantification of Mercury Speciation Transformations in Human Hair” Journal of Analytical 

Atomic Spectrometry, 24, 83-92, 2009. 

22. Lu. Yang, Elena Ciceri, Zoltan Mester and Ralph E. Sturgeon, “Application of DoubleSpike Isotope Dilution for the Accurate Determination of Cr(III), Cr(VI) and Total Cr in 

Yeast”, Anal. Bioanal. Chem., 2006, 386: 1673-1680 

23. H. M. Skip Kingston, Robert McDonald, Ye Han, Jason Wang, June Wang, Michael West, 

Larry Stewart, Bob Ormond, and Rudy Mui, “Automated, On-Line, Trace Contamination 

and Chemical Species Analysis For the Semiconductor Industry,” American Institute of 

Physics (AIP), Conference Proceedings, Proceedings form the 2003 Characterization and 

Metrology for ULSI Technology Conference, Volume 683, Melville, NY, 2003. 

24. G. M. Mizanur Rahman, “Development, Research and Validation of Environmental 

Speciation Methods: Evaluation by Speciated Isotope Dilution Mass Spectrometry in 

Mercury and Chromium Speciation Analysis.” Doctoral Dissertation, Duquesne University, 

Pittsburgh, PA USA, 2004. 

25. Juris Meija, Lu Yang, Joseph A. Caruso, Zoltan Mester, “Calculations of Double Spike 

Isotope Dilution Results Revisited.” J. Analytical Atomic Spectrometry, 2006 21, 1294-

1297, 

26. Gonzalo Manchego, G. M. Mizanur Rahman, Laura Reyes, Panxi Zhao, H. M. Skip 

Kingston, “Testing is an Essential Part of International Environmental Regulation and 

Commerce Compliance”, Washington DC, NEMC Presentation 2008. 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 36 Revision 1 

October 2012 

27. http://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/hazwaste/test/new-meth.htm and 

www.sampleprep.duq.edu and www.sidms.com. 

28. John Kern, H. M. Skip Kingston, G. M. M. Rahman, J. Sun, L. H. Reyes, Accurate, Explicit 

Determinations in Speciated Isotope Dilution Mass Spectrometry without Calibration 

Curves, in preparation 2012. 

29. C. Toews, J. Kern, H. M. Kingston and M. Rahman, “Sensitivity Analysis for Speciated 

Isotope Dilution Mass Spectrometry” Journal of Analytical and Atomic Spectrometry, 25, 

196-200, 2010. 

30. G. M. Mizanur Rahman, Timothy M. Fahrenholz, H. M. Skip Kingston, Matt Pamuku, J. 

David Hwang, and Lyman A. Young, “Speciation of Mercury in Crude Oil Using Speciated 

Isotope Dilution Mass Spectrometry” Spectroscopy, 25,1, 36-45, 2010. 

31. G. M. Mizanur Rahman, Timothy M. Fahrenholz, Matt Pamuku, Panxi Zhao, Laura Reyes, 

Scott Faber, H. M. Skip Kingston, “Speciation of Mercury in whole human blood by SIDMS 

SPME-GC-ICP-MS with Microwave Assisted Enhanced Equilibration and Extraction” (in 

preparation 2012) 

32. Laura H. Reyes, G. M. Mizanur Rahman, Timothy Fahrenholz, H. M. Skip Kingston, 

“Comparison of methods with respect to efficiencies, recoveries, and quantitation of 

mercury species interconversions in food demonstrated using tuna fish” Analytical 

Bioanalytical Chemistry, 390, 2123-2132, 2008. 

33. Gregory M. Zinn, G. M. Mizanur Rahman, Curtis Frantz, Larry Newman, Scott Faber, Matt 

Pamuku, H. M. Skip Kingston, “Dietary Supplement Contamination with metals, (in 

preparation 2012) 

34. Rebecca L. Wagner, Stephanie J. Wetzel, John Kern, Mizanur Rahman, Matt Pamuku, H. 

M. Skip Kingston, “Improved sample preparation of glyphosate and methylphosphonic acid 

by EPA Method 6800 and time-of-flight mass spectrometry using a novel solid phase 

extraction,” (Accepted: Journal of Mass Spectrometry, 2012). 

35. Timothy Fahrenholz, H. M. Skip Kingston, John Kern, Matt Pamuku, Hemasudha 

Chatragadda, “Quantification of Protein Biomarkers of Glutathione Reduced and Oxidized ” 

(in preparation 2012) 

36. Michael Passineau, Timothy Fahrenholz, Laurie Machen, Zourelias Lee, Katherine Nega, 

Rachel Paul, Mary MacDougall, Olga Mamaeva, Richard Steet, Jarrod Barnes, H. M. Skip 

Kingston, Raymond Benza. “α-Glactosidase A Expressed in the Salivary Glands Partially 

Corrects Organ Biochemical Deficits in the Fabry Mouse Through Endocrine 

Trafficking”Human Gene Therapy, 22:1-9 (March 2011). 

37. NIST Certificate of Analysis SRM 2701 “Hexavalent Chromium in Contaminated Soil (High 

Level)” (2009), 

38. Stuart Nagourney, Stephen A. Wilson, Brian Buckley, H. M. Skip Kingston, Shen-Yi Yang 

and Stephen E. Long. Journal of Analytical Atomic Spectroscopy, 23, 1550-1554, 2008. 

39. “Characterization of waste – Stat of the art document – Chromium VI specification in solid 

matrices” PD CEN/TR 14589:2003, British Standards, EU publication “International 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 37 Revision 1 

October 2012 

Standards Correspondence Index, Technical Report CEN Technical Committee CEN/TC 

292, European Committee for Standardization, 2003. 

40. Gregory M. Zinn, G. M. Mizanur Rahman, Sara Kallop, H. M. Skip Kingston, “Sodium Azide 

and Potassium Cyanide Quantification for homeland defense by isotope dilution mass 

spectrometry EPA Method 6800 (in preparation 2012).

41. Eva Krupp, Bruce Milne, Adrin Mestrot, Andrew Meharg and Jorg Feldmann, “Investigation 

into mercury bound to biothiols: structural identification using ESI-ion-trap MS and 

introduction of a method for their HPLC separation with simultaneous detection by ICP-MS 

and ESI-MS.” Analytical Bioanalytical Chemistry, 390, 1753-1764, 2008. 

42. US AIR FORCE Task Reports for the Homeland Security and Homeland Defense: 

extension of EPA Method 6800 conducted between 2007 and 2010 with funding from the 

Headquarters of the US Air Force Surgeon General under the awards, No.FA7014-07-0014 

and No.FA7014-08-C-0029. Report authors: H. M. Skip Kingston, M. Pomuku, M. Rahman, 

G. M. Zinn, R. L. Wagner. This report can be obtained from the US Air Force (with their 

permission) as some “sensitive” discussions are contained in this report. 

43. Timothy Fahrenholz, Scott Faber, H. M. Skip Kingston, John Kern, Matt Pamuku, 

Hemasudha Chatragadda, Becky Pekar, “Quantification Glutathione Biomarkers in Autism” 

(in preparation 2012). 

44. Rebecca L. Wagner, Stephanie Wetzel, H. M. Skip Kingston“ Direct Speciated Isotope 

Dilution Mass Spectrometry of Analytical Methodology of Illicit Drug in Urine Using Time-ofFlight Mass Spectrometry” (in review 2012). 

17.0 TABLES, DIAGRAMS, FLOW CHARTS AND VALIDATION DATA 

The following pages contain the tables and figures referenced by this method. The pages 

also contain two work-flow diagrams (one each for IDMS and SIDMS). A glossary follows these 

materials. 

The data below are provided for guidance purposes only. 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 38 Revision 1 

October 2012 

TABLE 1 

 ANALYSIS OF AN ARTIFICIALLY SYNTHESIZED WATER SAMPLE 

(Refs. 6 and 7) 

Concentration 

 (ng/g) 

Conversion 

(%) 

Aliquot 

 Days after 

spiking Cr(III) Cr(VI) 

Cr(III) to 

Cr(VI) 

Cr(VI) to 

 Cr(III) 

1 69.8 ± 0.3 68.8 ± 0.3 4.87 ± 0.22 3.57 ± 0.03 

1 4 69.2 ± 0.6 69.4 ± 0.3 3.47 ± 0.11 11.9 ± 0.5 

13 70.5 ± 0.9 68.5 ± 0.4 2.80 ± 0.13 22.4 ± 0.2 

1 69.6 ± 0.2 68.8 ± 0.4 17.6 ± 0.1 2.95 ± 0.02 

2 4 69.3 ± 0.7 69.6 ± 0.6 14.6 ± 1.3 11.4 ± 0.7 

13 70.7 ± 0.4 68.8 ± 0.3 12.8 ± 0.1 22.1 ± 0.3 

1 69.8 ± 0.6 69.0 ± 0.2 23.8 ± 0.3 2.76 ± 0.08 

3 4 69.0 ± 0.8 69.6 ± 0.3 21.6 ± 0.2 10.2 ± 0.1 

13 70.4 ± 0.5 68.9 ± 0.8 17.6 ± 0.3 22.1 ± 0.1 

True 69.67 68.63 

mean ± 95% confidence interval 

Aliquots 1, 2 and 3 were from the same isotopically-spiked synthesized sample. These aliquots 

were treated in different ways to permit different degrees of interconversion between Cr(III) and 

Cr(VI). Measurements were done on different days to check the stability of the species during 

storage. Despite the different degrees of interconversion, the deconvoluted concentrations for 

both Cr(III) and Cr(VI) were always corrected to the true concentrations within experimental 

error. 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 39 Revision 1 

October 2012 

TABLE 2 (A) 

CONCENTRATIONS OF Cr(VI) IN COPR SAMPLES DETERMINED WITH METHOD 7196 

AND SIDMS (SPIKED AFTER EXTRACTION) 

 (Refs. 8 and 12) 

Method 7196 SIDMS 

Sample Conc. of Cr(VI) 

(μg/g) 

Average 

(mean ±std) 

Conc. of Cr(VI) 

(μg/g) 

Average 

(mean ±std) 

COPR1 1330 1410 ± 85 1373 1445 ± 70 

1410 1449 

1500 1512 

COPR3 91.2 85.3 ± 5.2 93.9 88.8 ± 6.1 

81.5 82.1 

83.1 90.4 

COPR4 408.9 407.8 ± 7.2 419.8 418.0 ± 9.2 

414.4 426.1 

400.2 408.0 

COPR: chromite ore processing residue. 

Method 3060A was used for Cr(VI) extraction. 

Results obtained from SIDMS and Method 7196 are comparable for COPR samples. 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 40 Revision 1 

October 2012 

TABLE 2(B) 

OXIDATION OF Cr(III) TO Cr(VI) DURING EXTRACTION WITH METHOD 3060A FROM 

THREE COPR SAMPLES AND DETERMINED WITH METHOD 7196 AND SIDMS 

(SPIKED BEFORE EXTRACTION) 

(Refs. 3 and 12) 

 Total Cr Cr(VI) (μg g-1

) REe

 (mg g-1) SIDMS 

Corrected for Cr(III) to 

Cr(VI) conversion 

Method 7196 

Uncorrected for Cr(III) to 

Cr(VI) conversion 

(%) 

COPR 1 10.4a

2573 ± 35d

 2671 ± 17 3.8 

COPR 3 1.97a

161 ± 6 351 ± 8 118 

COPR 4 4.60a

614 ± 13 877 ± 21 43 

Fresh Fly Ash 0.0475b

8.3 ± 0.3 10.0 ± 0.4 21 

Fly Ash (at 41 ft.) 0.0582b

3.3 ± 0.3 4.1 ± 0.1 24 

SRM 1645 (River 

sediment) 

29.6c

1045 ± 46 2753 ± 31 163 

a

 provided by Environmental Standards, Inc. 

b

 determined with EPA method 3052 

c

 certified values 

d mean ± 95% confidence interval 

e

 Relative error 

TABLE 3 

ANALYSIS OF Cr(VI) IN LEACHATE FROM COAL FLYASH AND ACID MINE DRAINAGE 

(AMD) COMBINATION SAMPLES 

(Ref. 14) 

Sample mixture Aliquot Cr(VI) calculated/ 

ng g-1 b

Cr(VI) measured/ 

ng g-1

1:1 F Aliquot 1 704 46.6 ± 8.6 

1:1 L Aliquot 2 704 17.5 ± 4.2 

5:1 F Aliquot 1 1172 963 ± 53 

5:1 L Aliquot 2 1172 25.5 ± 3.5 

aUncertainties are at 95% confidence interval, n = 3

bOnly dilution of the leachate is considered 

L – spiked in laboratory 

F – spiked in filed 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 41 Revision 1 

October 2012 

TABLE 4(A) 

HEXAVALENT CHROMIUM RESULTS OBTAINED FROM INDUSTRIAL MATERIALS 

EXTRACTED WITH METHOD 3060A AND ANALYZED WITH METHOD 6800 (DOUBLE 

SPIKED BEFORE EXTRACTION) 

(Ref. 13) 

Sample 

Matrix 

Sample ID EPA Method 6800 (diagnostic SIDMS) 

Cr6+ before 

filtration 

Cr6+ after 

filtration 

Cr3+ to Cr6+

before filtration 

Cr3+ to Cr6+ after 

filtration 

(μg g-1) (μg g-1) (%) (%) 

SRM SRM 2704 7 ± 3 8 ± 1 50 ± 2 45 ± 4 

SRM 2711 N/A N/A N/A N/A 

Sediments Sediment-1 ND N/A N/A N/A 

Sediment-2 1.77 ± 0.34 N/A N/A N/A 

Aggregate 

Material 

Aggregate-1 308 ± 44 314 ± 28 56 ± 3 57 ± 2 

Aggregate-2 341 ± 29 334 ± 36 46 ± 1 47 ± 1 

Aggregate-3 206 ± 9 205 ± 16 48 ± 6 49 ± 7 

Aggregate-4 141 ± 6 141 ± 14 33 ± 3 33 ± 2 

Aggregate-5 223 ± 28 216 ± 17 41 ± 2 41 ± 1 

Aggregate-6 289 ± 27 291 ± 22 19 ± 3 19 ± 3 

Aggregate-7 278 ± 32 306 ± 29 20 ± 1 20 ± 1 

Uncertainties are at 95% CI, n = 3 

ND = not detectable (lowest measurable chromium = 0.5 ng mL-1 and this corresponds to 12.5 ng g-1 in 

soil or sediment sample) 

NA = not applicable 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 42 Revision 1 

October 2012 

TABLE 4(B) 

HEXAVALENT CHROMIUM RESULTS OBTAINED FROM INDUSTRIAL MATERIALS 

EXTRACTED WITH METHOD 3060A AND ANALYZED WITH IC-ICP-MS (EXTERNAL 

CALIBRATION) AND METHOD 6800 (IDMS & SIDMS), SINGLE SPIKED & DOUBLE SPIKED 

AFTER EXTRACTION 

(Ref. 13) 

Sample External 

calibration 

IDMSa EPA method 6800b

(μg g-1) (μg g-1) (μg g-1) Cr3+ converted to Cr6+ (%) 

SRM 2704 7 ± 2 12 ± 1 14 ± 2 10 ± 1 

SRM 2711 7 ± 1 1.5 ± 0.1 12 ± 4 9 ± 4 

Aggregate-1 342 ± 19 367 ± 25 342 ± 26 12 ± 3 

Aggregate-2 440 ± 6 448 ± 17 409 ± 11 5 ± 2 

Aggregate-3 245 ± 17 259 ± 12 242 ± 16 4 ± 1 

Aggregate-4 164 ± 8 171 ± 7 184 ± 11 10 ± 2 

Aggregate-5 199 ± 22 215 ± 17 214 ± 23 9 ± 2 

Aggregate-6 277 ± 22 295 ± 15 319 ± 23 10 ± 2 

Aggregate-7 291 ± 22 298 ± 18 328 ± 24 17 ± 4 

Uncertainties are at 95% CI, n = 3 

a

Extracts were spiked with 53Cr6+ spike after extraction 

b

Extracts were double spiked with iso-50Cr3+ and 53Cr6+ after extraction 

TABLE 5 

 RECOVERY OF Cr(VI) SPIKED INTO SOIL EXTRACTS 

(Ref. 8) 

Sample Mass of Soil (g) Spiked natCr(VI) Recovery (%) 

(μg/g) Method 7196 SIDMS 

1 0 2.997 101 ± 0.4 100 ± 1.3 

2 1.53 3.033 91.8 ± 1.7 100 ± 0.3 

3 3.06 2.993 81.9 ± 1.1 101 ± 0.3 

4 3.12 1.587 71.6 ± 2.5 99.3 ± 0.3 

Results obtained from SIDMS and Method 7196 are incomparable for soil extracts due to the 

serious matrix effects resulting from the coexisting reducing agents in soil. Method 7196 is 

incapable of correcting conversion of Cr(VI) leading to low recoveries. Results are based on N = 

3 with uncertainties expressed in standard deviation. 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 43 Revision 1 

October 2012 

TABLE 6 

RESULTS FOR SPECIATION OF Cr IN YEAST 

(Ref. 22) 

Sample NatCr(III) 

added, 

(mg/kg) 

NatCr(VI) 

added, 

(mg/kg) 

Measured 

Cr(III), 

(mg/kg) 

Measured 

Cr(VI), 

(mg/kg) 

NatCr(III) 

Recovery 

(%) 

NatCr(VI) 

Recovery 

(%) 

Measured 

Cr(III) + 

Cr(VI) 

(mg/kg) 

Measured 

Total Cr 

(mg/kg) 

Yeast 0 0 1952 ± 103 76 ± 48 NA NA 2028 ± 57 2014 ± 16

Spiked 

Yeast 

1784 2398 3749 ± 43 2466 ± 40 101 ± 2 100 ± 2 NA NA 

NA – not applicable 

Uncertainties are at 95% confidence interval, n = 3. 

TABLE 7 

THE DECONVOLUTED CONCENTRATION AND TRASFORMATION OF MERCURY SPECIES 

IN REFERENCE SOIL (MATERIAL-1) USING SIDMS CALCULATIONS. 

(Ref. 15) 

 Deconvoluted Concentration Interconversion 

 Hg2+ 

(μg/g) 

CH3Hg+ 

(μg/g) 

Hg2+ to CH3Hg+

(%) 

CH3Hg+ to Hg2+

(%) 

DSBE 3.05 ± 0.12 2.69 ± 0.10 1.3 ± 1.5 0.1 ± 1.4 

DSAE 2.94 ± 0.07 2.62 ± 0.09 0.8 ± 1.5 0.7 ± 0.6 

DSBE = double spiked before extraction; DSAE = double spiked after extraction. 

Uncertainties are expressed at 95% CL with n = 3. 

Material-1: 100% processed topsoil containing both inorganic mercury and methylmercury. 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 44 Revision 1 

October 2012 

TABLE 8 

EVALUATION OF DIFFERENT LITERATURE METHODS FOR MERCURY SPECIATION IN 

SOILS AND SEDIMENTS USING METHOD 6800. 

(Ref. 16) 

Sample 

Extraction 

Method 

Deconvoluted Concentration 

(μg/g) 

% Recovery Interconversion (%) 

Hg2+ CH3Hg+ Hg2+ CH3Hg+ Hg2+ to 

CH3Hg+

CH3Hg+

 to 

Hg2+

Material-1 

M-3200 2.68 ± 0.34 2.20 ± 0.29 89 ± 12 73 ± 10 0 ± 3 0 ± 9 

SONI-1 2.49 ± 0.16 1.83 ± 0.13 83 ± 5 61 ± 4 5 ± 1 45 ± 4 

SONI-2 1.88 ± 0.20 1.96 ± 0.24 63 ± 7 65 ± 8 2 ± 3 10 ± 5 

MAE 1.99 ± 0.14 2.01 ± 0.16 66 ± 8 67 ± 5 0 ± 3 7 ± 3 

CAE NA NA NA NA NA ~ 100 

Material-2 

M-3200 4.09 ± 0.93 2.79 ± 0.29 91 ± 21 62 ± 6 2 ± 2 6 ± 5 

SONI-1 3.67 ± 0.16 2.65 ± 0.09 81 ± 3 59 ± 2 2 ± 1 44 ± 4 

SONI-2 3.09 ± 0.23 2.29 ± 0.20 67 ± 5 51 ± 5 1 ± 1 2 ± 2 

MAE 3.09 ± 0.24 2.26 ± 0.13 69 ± 5 50 ± 3 2 ± 1 4 ± 3 

CAE NA NA NA NA NA ~ 100 

Uncertainties are expressed at 95% CL, n = 9. 

NA – analyzed but could not perform SIDMS calculations. 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 45 Revision 1 

October 2012 

TABLE 9 

SIDMS ANALYSIS OF FISH TISSUE (FISH REFERENCE MATERIALS) (ERM-CE464, DOLT3, NIST-1946) AFTER OPTIMIZED MICROWAVE-ASSISTED EXTRACTION 

(Ref. 20) 

Reference 

material 

ICP-MS LC-ICP-MS 

Total Hg 

(mg kg-1) 

Hg2+as Hg 

(mg kg-1) CH3Hg+

 as Hg 

(mg kg-1) 

Sum of speciesa

 as 

Hg 

(mg kg-1) 

Mean conversion ± 95% C.L. 

(%) 

 

Hg2+ to 

CH3Hg+ CH3Hg+

 to Hg2+

ERM-CE464 

Certified Values 5.24 ± 0.10 5.12 ± 0.16 

EC 5.29 ± 0.24 0.17 ± 0.01 5.14 ± 0.10 5.31 ± 0.10 

IDMS (SSAE) 5.30 ± 0.02 

SIDMS (DSAE) 0.14 ± 0.01 5.09 ± 0.07 5.23 ±0.08 3.80 ± 0.30 0.53 ± 0.26 

SIDMS (DSBE) 0.14 ± 0.02 5.16 ± 0.04 5.30 ±0.04 7.05 ± 0.78 0.10 ± 0.05 

DOLT-3 

Certified Values 3.37 ± 0.14 1.72b 

EC 3.32 ± 0.09 1.63 ± 0.06 1.59 ± 0.07 3.22 ± 0.08 

IDMS (SSAE) 3.24 ± 0.06 

SIDMS (DSAE) 1.37 ± 0.02 1.78 ± 0.05 3.15 ± 0.06 1.99 ± 0.42 0.62 ± 0.22 

SIDMS (DSBE) 1.52 ± 0.03 1.68 ± 0.03 3.20 ± 0.05 4.39 ± 0.40 1.57 ± 0.36 

NIST 1946 

Certified Values 0.43 ± 0.01 0.40 ± 0.01 

EC 0.43 ± 0.02 0.016 ± 0.003 0.42 ± 0.02 0.44 ± 0.01 

IDMS (SSAE) 0.42 ± 0.01 

SIDMS (DSAE) 0.012 ± 0.005 0.412 ± 0.005 0.42 ± 0.01 6.76 ± 1.82 0.41 ± 0.13 

SIDMS (DSBE) 0.010 ± 0.002 0.41 ± 0.01 0.42 ± 0.01 7.91 ± 1.20 0.48 ± 0.09 

a

Sum of species = Hg2+ + CH3Hg+ (HPLC-ICP-MS). bIndicative value. 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 46 Revision 1 

October 2012 

Reference 

material 

ICP-MS LC-ICP-MS 

Total Hg 

(mg kg-1) 

Hg2+as Hg 

(mg kg-1) 

CH3Hg+

 as Hg 

(mg kg-1) 

Sum of speciesa

 as 

Hg 

(mg kg-1) 

Mean conversion ± 95% C.L. 

(%) 

Hg2+ to 

CH3Hg+ CH3Hg+

 to Hg2+

ERM-CE464 

Certified Values 5.24 ± 0.10 5.12 ± 0.16 

EC 5.29 ± 0.24 0.17 ± 0.01 5.14 ± 0.10 5.31 ± 0.10 

IDMS (SSAE) 5.30 ± 0.02 

SIDMS (DSAE) 0.14 ± 0.01 5.09 ± 0.07 5.23 ±0.08 3.80 ± 0.30 0.53 ± 0.26 

SIDMS (DSBE) 0.14 ± 0.02 5.16 ± 0.04 5.30 ±0.04 7.05 ± 0.78 0.10 ± 0.05 

DOLT-3 

Certified Values 3.37 ± 0.14 1.72b 

EC 3.32 ± 0.09 1.63 ± 0.06 1.59 ± 0.07 3.22 ± 0.08 

IDMS (SSAE) 3.24 ± 0.06 

SIDMS (DSAE) 1.37 ± 0.02 1.78 ± 0.05 3.15 ± 0.06 1.99 ± 0.42 0.62 ± 0.22 

SIDMS (DSBE) 1.52 ± 0.03 1.68 ± 0.03 3.20 ± 0.05 4.39 ± 0.40 1.57 ± 0.36 

NIST 1946 

Certified Values 0.43 ± 0.01 0.40 ± 0.01 

EC 0.43 ± 0.02 0.016 ± 0.003 0.42 ± 0.02 0.44 ± 0.01 

IDMS (SSAE) 0.42 ± 0.01 

SIDMS (DSAE) 0.012 ± 0.005 0.412 ± 0.005 0.42 ± 0.01 6.76 ± 1.82 0.41 ± 0.13 

SIDMS (DSBE) 0.010 ± 0.002 0.41 ± 0.01 0.42 ± 0.01 7.91 ± 1.20 0.48 ± 0.09 

a

Sum of species = Hg2+ + CH3Hg+ (HPLC-ICP-MS). bIndicative value. 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 47 Revision 1 

October 2012 

TABLE 10 

EVALUATION OF DIFFERENT LITERATURE METHODS FOR MERCURY SPECIATION IN 

HUMAN HAIR (IAEA-085) USING METHOD 6800 

(Ref. 21) 

Extraction Method Hg2+

(μg/g) 

MeHg+

(μg/g) 

Total Mercury 

(μg/g) 

Hg2+ to 

MeHg+ (%) 

MeHg+to 

Hg2+ (%) 

Certified value 0.3 22.9 ± 1.4 23.2 ± 0.8 ------ ------ 

Akagi et. al. 1.96 ± 0.59 23.81 ± 0.67 25.77 ± 0.89 < 0 < 0 

Diez et. al. 1.36 ± 0.39 24.82 ± 1.59 26.18 ± 1.64 < 0 4 ± 1 

Bermejo et. al. 1.32 ± 0.16 22.39 ± 0.49 23.71 ± 0.52 4 ± 1 2 ± 1 

Feng et. al. 1.15 ± 0.40 23.49 ± 0.49 24.64 ± 0.63 4 ± 2 3 ± 1 

Chai et. al. 1.00 ± 0.56 23.62 ± 0.57 24.62 ± 0.80 2 ± 2 5 ± 2 

Montuori et. al. 1.15 ± 0.42 25.17 ± 0.96 26.32 ± 1.05 14 ± 2 22 ± 1

Morton et. al. 1.09 ± 0.23 23.50 ± 1.21 24.59 ± 1.23 < 0 90 ± 5 

Method 3200 

(MAE) 

0.59 ± 0.22 23.65 ± 1.42 24.24 ± 1.44 4 ± 2 6 ± 1 

Method 3200 (UAE) 1.13 ± 0.25 19.80 ± 1.25 20.93 ± 1.28 9 ± 3 0 ± 1 

Uncertainties are at 95% CL, n = 12. 

MAE – Microwave-assisted extraction; UAE – Ultrasound-assisted extraction. 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 48 Revision 1 

October 2012 

TABLE 11 

ANALYSIS OF RoHS GROUND AND PULVERIZED CIRCUIT BOARDS FOR ALL 

REGULATED METALS SIMULTANEOUSLY USING IDMS 

(Ref. 26) 

Sample ID Cadmium 

(μg/g) 

Chromium 

(μg/g) 

Lead 

(μg/g) 

Mercury 

(μg/g) 

2811 1.916 ± 0.054 23.829 ± 0.866 19,806 ± 973 4.134 ± 1.059 

Compaq #1 2.087 ± 0.107 13.462 ± 1.252 15,257 ± 917 6.316 ± 1.709 

Dell Optiplex #5 2.081 ± 0.049 20.624 ± 1.010 23,496 ± 1,354 3.838 ± 0.871 

Dell Optiplex #3 2.013 ± 0.086 38.512 ± 3.113 21,634 ± 972 N/A 

AVVA 2.017 ± 0.115 35.399 ± 1.045 23,883 ± 1,243 N/A 

Uncertainties are at 95% CI with n = 3, Cr(VI) was less than 1% by 6800. 

N/A – not analyzed. 

TABLE 12 

SIDMS BY HPLC-ICP-MS ANALYSIS OF THREE EXTRACTABLE MERCURY SPECIES AND 

NON-EXTRACTABLE MERCURY FROM CRUDE OIL AFTER EPA METHOD 3200 

EXTRACTION AND 6800 QUANTIFICATION WITH MASS BALANCE. 

(Ref. 30) 

Sample Name Extractable Mercury Species, μg/kg Non-Extractable Mercury 

Species, μg/kg 

Total Mercury*, μg/kg 

 Hg2+ MeHg+EtHg+ 

Serial # 87183317.3 ± 3.60.8 ± 0.1 10.7 ± 1.1 342.5 ± 46.8 370.2 ± 47.0 (414.1 ± 24.7)

Serial # 87098723.6 ± 3.70.5 ± 0.1 7.4 ± 2.2 323.3 ± 30.7 354.8 ± 31.0 

(437.8 ± 25.4) 

Uncertainties are at 95% CL, n = 12 (3 x 4). 

*values in parentheses are total mercury determined by isotope dilution mass spectrometry (IDMS) of the 

crude oil after Method 3052 digestion. 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 49 Revision 1 

October 2012 

TABLE 13 

INTERCONVERSION OF EXTRACTABLE SPECIES USING METHOD 3200 

DEMONSTRATING THAT GREATER THAN 80% CONVERSIONS ARE QUANTIFIABLE BY 

METHOD 6800. THESE DATA ARE PART OF THE OVERALL DATA IN TABLE 12 AND ARE 

DETAILED IN THE REFERENCE. 

(Ref. 30) 

Sample 

Name 

Deconvoluted 

Concentration, μg/kg 

Interconversion (%) 

 Hg2+ MeHg+ EtHg+ Hg2+ to 

MeHg+

MeHg+

 to 

Hg2+

MeHg+

 to 

EtHg+

EtHg+

 to 

MeHg+

EtHg+

 to 

Hg2+

Hg2+ to 

EtHg+

Serial # 

871833 

17.3 ± 

3.6 

0.8 ± 

0.1 

10.7 ± 

1.1 

9.6 ± 0.9 2.9 ± 0.8 0.8 ± 0.1 6.1 ± 0.6 55.1 ± 

2.2 

2.1 ± 1.0

Serial # 

870987 

23.6 ± 

3.7 

0.5 ± 

0.1 

7.4 ± 

2.2 

7.4 ± 1.0 6.2 ± 1.0 0.9 ± 0.1 7.9 ± 0.8 86.9 ± 

1.5 

1.3 ± 0.1

Uncertainties are at 95% CL, n = 12 (3 x 4).

TABLE 14 

MERCURY SPECIES IN NIST HUMAN BLOOD SRM-966 BY SIDMS 

(Refs. 31 and 42) 

Sample Total Mercury (ng/g) Deconvoluted Concentration (ng/g) 

Hg2+ MeHg+ EtHg+ 

SRM-966 (Level 2) 31.9 ± 2.1 

(29.8 ± 1.6)a

16.7 ± 1.2 

(14.1 ± 0.9)b

15.3 ± 1.5 

(15.6 ± 1.3)b NA 

HB-1 ------- 1.54 ± 0.12 3.72 ± 0.48 0.09 ± 0.02 

HB-2 30.63 ± 3.19 

(23)b 5.43 ± 1.52 25.2 ± 2.8 NA 

HB-3 23.38 ± 2.25 

(17)b 4.28 ± 2.29 19.1 ± 2.3 NA 

Uncertainties are at 95% CL, n = 4 

aCertified values are in parentheses. 

bReference values are in parentheses
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 50 Revision 1 

October 2012 

TABLE 15 

CONCENTRATIONS OF MERCURY SPECIES (IN mg/Kg of Hg species) DETERMINED IN 

TUNA FISH TISSUE SRM (ERM0CE464) BY EXTERNAL CALIBRATION AND METHOD 6800 

(SIDMS) DEMONSTRATING THAT EFFICIENCY OF EXTRACTION DOES NOT AFFECT 

ACCURACY AFTER EQUILIBRATION HAS BEEN REACHED IN METHOD 6800 

 (Ref. 32) 

 External calibration EPA Method 6800 

(SIDMS) 

Extraction 

procedure 

Hg2+ CH3Hg+ sum of 

species 

Hg2+ CH3Hg+ sum of species 

Certified 

value 

0.12a5.12 ± 0.16 5.24 ± 0.10 0.12a5.12 ± 0.16 5.24 ± 0.10 

A 0.06 ± 0.02 5.05 ± 0.13 5.11 ± 0.13 0.07 ± 0.02 5.22 ±0.31 5.29 ± 0.31 

B 0.12 ± 0.03 5.05 ± 0.18 5.17 ± 0.18 0.07 ± 0.03 5.20 ± 0.18 5.27 ±0.18 

C 0.18 ± 0.05 4.88 ± 0.17 5.06 ± 0.18 0.30 ± 0.07 5.18 ± 0.13 5.48 ± 0.15 

D 0.07 ± 0.02 4.29 ± 0.39 4.36 ± 0.39 0.13 ± 0.05 5.11 ± 0.38 5.24 ± 0.38 

E 0.06 ± 0.04 3.94 ± 0.12 4.00 ± 0.13 0.11 ± 0.07 5.60 ± 0.33 5.71 ± 0.34 

F 0.35 ± 0.08 3.29 ± 0.14 3.64 ± 0.16 0.27 ± 0.12 5.12 ± 0.19 5.39 ± 0.22 

G 0.45 ± 0.10 4.87 ± 0.20 5.32 ± 0.22 1.05 ± 0.14 5.08 ± 0.25 6.13 ± 0.29 

H 0.16 ± 0.07 4.42 ± 0.14 4.58 ± 0.16 0.07 ± 0.02 5.22 ±0.31 5.29 ± 0.31 

a

Inorganic mercury concentration was calculated as the difference between certified total mercury and 

methylmercury concentrations. The values are means ± 95% CL (n = 3). 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 51 Revision 1 

October 2012 

TABLE 16a 

ANTIMONY TOXICANT CONTAMINATION IN Zn DIETARY SUPPLEMENT IN ug/g BY IDMS 

METHOD 6800 

(Ref. 33) 

Samples Directly From Manufacturer Commercially Available Samples 

Lot Concentration of Antimony (ppb) Lot Concentration of Antimony (ppb) 

1 17,650 ± 145.9 3-1 14,430 ± 479.8 

2 15,770 ± 246.1 3-2 15,720 ± 47.07 

3 17,000 ± 67.03 3-3 15,370 ± 31.41 

4 27,310 ± 276.2 11-1 96.15 ± 12.79 

5 16,830 ± 236.5 11-2 79.55 ± 5.289 

6 18,060 ± 84.62 11-3 65.00 ± 1.128 

7 15,590 ± 88.14 14-1 0.4486 ± 0.1586 

8 24,450 ± 159.0 14-2 0.3350 ± 0.05088 

9 16,120 ± 57.58 14-3 0.3040 ± 0.03636 

10 218.4 ± 24.50 15 0.6307 ± 0.09681 

11 78.84 ± 1.337 

12 454.1 ± 12.16 

13 380.9 ± 29.22 

Stevia 31,620 ± 298.5 

n = 12, at the 95% Confidence Interval. 

TABLE 16b 

ZINC CONCENTRATION IN Zn DIETARY SUPPLEMENT IN ug/g BY IDMS METHOD 6800. 

(Ref. 33) 

Samples Directly From Manufacturer Commercially Available Samples

Lot Concentration of Zinc (ppm) Lot Concentration of Zinc (ppm)

1 4,332 ± 84 3-1 4,150 ± 178 

2 4,223 ± 96 3-2 4,034 ± 207 

3 4,307 ± 94 3-3 4,105 ± 77 

4 4,128 ± 77 11-1 4,121 ± 55 

5 4,173 ± 117 11-2 4,146 ± 83 

6 4,340 ± 126 11-3 4,041 ± 129 

7 3,930 ± 81 14-1 3,935 ± 110 

8 4,232 ± 134 14-2 4,142 ± 72 

9 4,203 ± 93 14-3 4,131 ± 62 

10 4,198 ± 100 15 4,656 ± 65 

11 4,115 ± 89 

12 4,174 ± 95 

13 4,170 ± 77 

Stevia 0.9347 ± 0.1085 

Concentrations are in ppm, ug/g of dietary supplement 

n = 12, at the 95% Confidence Interval. 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 52 Revision 1 

October 2012 

TABLE 17 

ANALYSIS OF THE PESTICIDE GLYPHOSATE (ANALOGUE FOR VX NERVE GAS) BY IDMS 

SOLID PHASE EXTRACTION AND i-SPIKE FROM DRINKING WATER WHERE THE 

ENRICHED ISOTOPES ARE ADDED FIRST TO THE EXTRACTION MEDIA FOR 

AUTOMATION AND FOR PERSONNEL SAFETY IN EXTREMELY TOXIC ANALYSES 

(Refs. 34 and 42) 

Normalized Actual 

Concentration (ppm) 

Normalized Measured 

Concentration (ppm) 

95% Confidence Interval % RSD 

SPE-IDMS 

100 99.54 ±2.17 2.10% 

50 53.05 ±0.90 1.55% 

i-Spike 

100 99.54 ±1.90 1.83% 

50 53.77 ±1.16 1.96% 

TABLE 18 

GLUTATHIONE CONGIGATE MERCURY SPECIES QUANTIFIED BY 6800 USING ESI-TOF 

AND MALDI-TOF (TRUE VALUE 480.3 ug/g) 

(Refs. 35 and 41) 

Glutathione mercury (Glutathione2-Hg2+ in sample by nanoESI-TOF IDMS 485 ± 18 ppm 

Glutathione mercury (Glutathione2-Hg2+ in sample by MALDI-TOF IDMS 474 ±73 ppm 

Actual Concentration of Glutathione mercury dimer 480.3 ppm 

Quantification by EPA Method 6800 using both nanoESI-TOF-MS and MALDI-TOF-MS 

n-4, uncertainty is 95% CL 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 53 Revision 1 

October 2012 

FIGURE 1 

THE INFLUENCE OF THE DEAD TIME CORRECTION ON THE ISOTOPE RATIOS 

MEASURED WITH ICP-MS EQUIPPED WITH A CONTINUOUS DYNODE MULTIPLIER 

(Ref. 12) 

Gain loss occurs when the count rate exceeds 5.8x105

. 

FIGURE 2 

IDMS DETERMINATION OF VANADIUM IN CRUDE OIL. NUMBERS SHOWN ABOVE THE 

BARS ARE THE ATOMIC FRACTION 

(Revised from Ref. 1) 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 54 Revision 1 

October 2012 

FIGURE 3 

SEPARATION AND DETECTION OF Cr(III) AND Cr(VI) WITH ION-EXCHANGE 

CHROMATOGRAPHY COUPLED WITH AN ICP-MS 

(Ref. 5) 

FIGURE 4 

SEPARATION OF THE UNSPIKED SAMPLE AND ISOTOPICALLY SPIKED SAMPLE 

(Ref. 6) 

(a): Chromatograms of a solution containing Cr(III) and Cr(VI) with natural isotopic abundance. 

(b): Chromatograms of the same solution spiked with isotope-enriched spikes 50Cr(III) and 53Cr(VI) .
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 55 Revision 1 

October 2012 

FIGURE 5 

GRAPHIC CALCULATED ILLUSTRATION OF THE APPLICATION OF SIDMS TO THE 

SIMULTANEOUS DETERMINATION OF Cr(III) AND Cr(VI) (Ref. 6) 

(a) and (b) show the initial natural isotopic abundance of species Cr(III) and Cr(VI) in a 50_l 200 

ppb Cr solution in which the concentrations of both Cr(III) and Cr(VI) are 100 ppb. In (c) and (d), 

the sample is spiked with 100 ppb 50Cr(III) (in which 50Cr is enriched) and 100 ppb 53Cr(VI) (in 

which 53Cr is enriched), there is no interconversion between Cr(III) and Cr(VI). In (e) and (f), 

20% of Cr(III) is converted to Cr(VI), and 20% of Cr(VI) is converted to Cr(III). Different degrees 

of interconversion results in different isotopic abundances, so the change of the relative isotopic 

abundance can be applied to the determination of the species and the degree of the 

interconversion. 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 56 Revision 1 

October 2012 

FIGURE 6 

HEXAVALENT CHROMIUM CONCENTRATIONS IN FLY ASH LEACHATE OBTAINED FROM 

HISTORICAL DATA (HD), STUDY WITH SIDMS (DU); AND BEFORE AND AFTER 

COMBINATION WITH ACID MINE DRAINAGE (AMD) 

(Ref. 14) 

0

0.2

0.4

0.6

0.8

1

1.2

1.4

1.6

HD-1 HD-2 HD-3 HD-4 HD-5 HD-6 HD-7 DU-1 DU-2 DU-3 1:1 combo 5:1 combo

μ

Cr(VI) concentration in leachate before and after combination with AMD, which illustrate the 

dramatic and statistically significant decrease in Cr(VI) concentrations in the fly ash leachate as a 

result of treating with AMD. Observations from HD-1 to HD-7 (dark gray bars) were historical 

data obtained from the power plant. Observations from DU-1 to DU-3 (light gray bars) were 

obtained from the SIDMS analysis at Duquesne University during current study, and 

observations ‘1:1 combo’ and ‘5:1 combo’ were obtained by mixing leachate and AMD with the 

ratios of 1:1 and 5:1 (leachate to AMD), respectively. Error bars are shown at 95% confidence 

intervals with n = 3. 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 57 Revision 1 

October 2012 

FIGURE 7 

ALPHA-GLACTOSIDASE A (GLA) ENZYME MEASURED BY 6800 IDMS IN MOUSE BY NANOESI-QTOF MASS SPECTROMETRY AGAINST THE STANDARD FLUORESCENCE 

METHODS AND FOUND TO BE SUPERIOR FOR DETECTING LOWER DOSE 

CONCENTRATIONS IN LIVER, KIDNEY AND BRAIN (PLASMA WAS NOT DONE BY IDMS IN 

THIS DIAGRAM). 

 (Ref. 36) 
SW-846 Update V 6800 - 58 Revision 1 

October 2012 

FIGURE 8 

NANO-ESI-TOF-MS ANALYSIS OF GLUTATHIONE CONJUGATES WITH CH3Hg+

 and Hg2+. 

THE TWO NATURAL ISOTOPE SPECIES OF INORGANIC MERCURY AND 

METHYLMERCURY BOUND TO GLUTATHIONE IN SPECTRA 8A AND 8C. THE TWO 

ISOTOPICALLY ENRICHED MERCURY IN SPECIATED FORMS WITH THE ENRICHED 

ISOTOPE EVIDENT IN THE MERCURY GLUTATHIONE SPECTRA OF 8B AND 8D. 

(Refs. 35 and 42) 

Figure 8A. Natural abundant CH3Hg+ - Glutathione conjugate (522 m/z peak mostly from 200Hg – 

Glutathione conjugate, 524 m/z peak mostly from 202Hg – Glutathione conjugate) 

Figure 8B. Natural abundant CH3Hg+ spiked with CH3

200Hg+

 - Glutathione conjugate (notice the 

522 m/z peak in this figure compared to the one above) 
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Figure 8C. Natural abundant Hg2+ - Glutathione conjugate with two Glutathione molecules 

bound to Hg2+ (peak at 812 m/z mostly due to 199Hg2+ - Glutathione conjugate, peak at 815 m/z 

mostly due to 202Hg – Glutathione conjugate). 

Figure 8D. Natural abundant Hg2+spiked with enriched 199Hg2+ (notice the 812 m/z peak in this 

figure compared to the one above) 
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FIGURE 9 

NATURAL ABUNDANT REDUCED (9A) AND OXIDIZED (9B) GLUTATHIONE BIOMARKERS 

ANALYZED BY NANO-ESI-QTOF-MS. 

(Refs. 35 and 42) 

FIGURE 9A. Natural abundant Reduced Glutathione (GSH) 

FIGURE 9B. Natural abundant oxidized Glutathione (GSSG) 
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FIGURE 10 

SODIUM AZIDE, TOXICANT AND EXPLOSIVE, ANALYZED BY ESI-TOF-MS IN BOTH 

POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE MODES. EACH MODE GIVES DIFFERENT SPECIES ADDUCT 

FORMATION PATTERNS AND RATIOS THAT ARE STOICHIOMETRICALLY RELATED TO 

THE DIRECT EQUATIONS AND MATHEMATICAL SOLUTIONS. QUANTIFICATION 

ANALYSES WERE WITHIN 5% OF TRUE VALUE BY METHOD 6800 FOR ALL ANALYSES 

OF THIS TYPE. 

(Refs. 40 and 42) 

Figure 10A: An example of the unique spectra obtained from natural sodium azide, enriched 

sodium azide, and a mixed solution containing both natural sodium azide and enriched sodium 

azide in negative mode. The graphs are offset for clarity. In the mixed solution, a 1:2:1 ratio is 

observed as expected. Typical sample accuracy is within ± 5% of true concentration. 
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October 2012 

FIGURE 10B. Spectrum of 20 ppm NaN3 and 20 ppm Na15NNN in water in positive mode and 

enlargement of one of the specific fragmentation patters. Each fragmentation pattern gives the 

same direct mathematical concentration. In positive mode, these two peaks form a 

mathematical pattern of one natural (left) and one enriched (right) providing quantitative data 

within 1% of the true value (in this particular case). In addition, these positive azide analyses in 

water are examples of solid phase extraction (SPE) elution solution spectrum for an i-Spike ESIID-TOF-MS of sodium azide in water using 1:1:1 Optima ACN:Optima MeOH:Optima H2O with 

5% 0.5 M NaOH in water. The i-Spike method loads the enriched isotopic molecule first and 

then loads the sample where the analyte is extracted and the two are equilibrated on the solid 

phase media and then eluted in the final isotopic and molecular form after which any portion of 

the sample analyte gives the same correct quantitative solution. 
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FIGURE 10C. Spectrum of 20 ppm NaN3 and 20 ppm Na15NNN in water in negative mode. 

Here a different fractionation pattern is a 1:2:1 (similar to the example in Figure 10A) and 

provides quantification accuracy within 5%. Note that the negative and positive ionization 

patterns confirm each other using the opposite charged fragmentation pattern. 
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METHOD 6800 

 ELEMENTAL AND MOLECULAR SPECIATED ISOTOPE DILUTION MASS SPECTROMETRY: 

 ISOTOPE DILUTION MASS SPECTROMETRY (IDMS)

Start 

Type of 

analysis? 

11.1 Total Element 

11.2 Speciated 

Isotope Dilution 

Mass Spectrometry 

(SIDMS)

11.2 Speciation 

11.1.2 

Are the isotope 

enriched standards 

ready? 

7.2 Prepare 

isotope enriched 

standards 

No 

7.4 Spike the isotope 

enriched standards with 

the standard solutions 

that have natural 

isotopic abundance.

11.1.3 Spike sample 

with the isotope 

enriched standards. 

11.1.4 

Is the sample 

acidified and 

prefiltered 

water? 

11.1.4 Digest 

the spiked 

samples.

No 

Yes 

Yes 

11.1.5 

Is the instrument 

ready for 

measuring 

isotopic ratios? 

10.1.1 Set-up and 

tune instrument 

according to Method 

6020.

10.1.2 Determine the 

dead time. 

No 

11.1.5 Measure the 

isotope ratios of samples. 

Measure mass bias 

Yes 

11.1.5 

Are the isotopic 

ratios outside 0.1 

to 10 for samples 

containing 

significant 

amounts of 

Yes 

11.1.5.2 

Is the response so 

high that the gain 

depression might 

occur? 

No 

11.1.5.2 Dilute 

the spiked 

samples 

Yes 

12.1.1 Integrate the 

counts, perform dead 

time correction and 

mass bias correction.

No 

12.1.1 Calculate 

the isotope ratios. 

12.1.1 Calculate the 

concentrations using the 

measure isotope ratios. 

12.1.3 If required 

calculate results for 

dry-weight basis. 

Stop 
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METHOD 6800 

 ELEMENTAL AND MOLECULAR SPECIATED ISOTOPE DILUTION MASS SPECTROMETRY: 

 SPECIATED ISOTOPE DILUTION MASS SPECTROMETRY (SIDMS)

Start 

Type of 

analysis 

11.1 Isotope 11.1 Total Element 

Dilution Mass 

Spectrometry 

(IDMS) 

11.2 Speciation 

11.2.2 

Are the isotope 

enriched standards 

50Cr(III) & 53Cr(VI) 

ready? 

7.3 Prepare isotope 

enriched standards 

50Cr(III) & 53Cr(VI) 

No 

7.4 Spike the isotope 

enriched standards with 

the standard solutions that 

have natural isotopic 

abundance. 

11.2.3 Spike sample 

with 53Cr(VI) 

11.2.4 

Is the sample 

an aqueous 

solution? 

11.2.4 Extract the 

species from the 

sample 

No 

11.2.5 Neutralize 

the sample, if 

necessary. 

Yes 

Yes 

11.2.6 Acidify the 

solution to pH 2. 

11.2.7 

Is the instrument 

ready for 

measuring isotopic 

ratios?

10.1.1 Set-up and tune 

instrument according to 

Method 6020 

10.1.2 Measure the 

dead time. 

10.2.2 Connect the 

chromatograph to ICP-MS 

No 

11.2.7 Measure the isotope 

ratios of samples. Measure 

mass bias factors. 

Yes 

11.2.7.2 

Are the isotopic ratios 

outside 0.1 to 10 for 

samples containing 

significant amounts of 

analyte? 

Yes 

11.2.7.2 

Is the response so 

high that the gain 

depression might 

occur? 

No 

11.2.7.2 Dilute 

the spiked 

samples 

Yes 

12.2.1 Perform dead 

time correction at each 

point across peaks. 

No 

12.2.1 Integrate the 

peaks by summing 

up the counts across 

peaks. 

12.2.1 Calculate the 

isotope ratios and 

perform mass bias 

correction. 

12.2.2 Deconvolute the 

concentration of each 

species and the 

conversion of the species. 

12.2.5 If required 

calculate results for 

dry-weight basis. 

Stop 
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GLOSSARY

Atomic mass unit (symbol: u or amu) or dalton (symbol: Da) – the unit used to indicate mass on 

an atomic or molecular scale. One amu or u or Da is defined as the mass of one twelfth of the 

isotope of carbon-12. 

Mass-to-charge ratio (m/z) – is the mass of the ion divided by the charge of the ion and is the 

functional unit measured in a mass spectrometer. 

Isotope dilution mass spectrometry (IDMS) – A quantitative method for total concentration 

determination of an analyte based on the measurement of the isotope ratio of a nuclide using 

mass spectrometry after isotope dilution, both molecular and ionic. 

Isotope dilution – Mixing of a given nuclide with one or more of its isotopes. The isotope usually 

has an enriched isotopic abundance different from that occurring naturally. 

Speciation analysis – IUPAC defines speciation analysis as analyzing: “Chemical compounds 

that differ in isotopic composition, conformation, oxidation or electronic state, or in the nature of 

their complexed or covalently bound substituent, can be regarded as distinct chemical species” 

Speciated isotope dilution mass spectrometry (SIDMS) – A quantitative method for determining 

molecular or ionic or elemental species and interconversions between them based on the 

measurement of isotope ratio(s) in each species of a nuclide using mass spectrometry after 

speciated isotope dilution. Samples are mixed with one or more isotopic spikes which have 

different isotopic abundances and are artificially converted to chemical forms corresponding to 

the species to be analyzed. The spiked samples are then subjected to the separation of the 

species, followed by the measurement of the altered isotope ratios in each species. Both 

species concentrations and the extent of species conversions can be mathematically 

deconvoluted. 

Isotopic abundance – The relative number of atoms of a particular isotope in a mixture of the 

isotopes of an element or molecule, expressed as a fraction of all the atoms of the element. 

Isotopes – Nuclides having the same atomic number but different mass numbers. 

Species – Chemical forms in which molecule and or an element exists. 

Natural isotopic abundance –Isotopic abundance of elements from natural sources. Most 

elements (except lithium, lead and uranium) found in nature have a constant isotope 

abundance. 

Isotope ratio – Ratio of the isotopic abundances of two isotopeic forms of molecular ions. 

Speciation (or speciated) analysis – Quantification of elements in specific chemical forms. 

Isotope-enriched material – Material containing elements artificially enriched in minor isotopes. 

Isotopic spike (Isotope-enriched spike) – Standards prepared from isotope-enriched materials. 

i-Spike – Method of isotopic species equilibration that takes place rapidly by preloading 

isotopically enriched spike onto a sorbent-packed column prior to the introduction of the sample 

in both IDMS and SIDMS. 
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Dead time – The interval during which the detector and its associated counting electronics are 

unable to resolve successive pulses. The measured counts are lower than the true counts if no 

correction is performed. 

Gain loss – The loss of gain in detector caused by the inability of the multiplier’s dynode string 

to supply enough current to maintain constant dynode voltage drops. The measured counts are 

lower than the true counts, and cannot be mathematically corrected if gain loss occurs. 

Mass bias – The deviation of the measured isotope ratio from the true value caused by the 

differential sensitivity of the instrument to mass. This effect may occur in the ionization process 

or from differential transmission/detection by the mass spectrometer. 

Mass bias factor – A number used to correct for the mass bias of the measured isotope ratios. 

Mass bias factor is measured by employing an isotopically certified standard. 

Isotopic-abundance-certified standard (Isotopically certified standard) – Standard material with 

certified isotopic abundance. 

Inverse isotope dilution – Analysis method to determine the concentrations of isotopic spikes. A 

known quantity and isotopic abundance of an isotopic spike is mixed with a known amount and 

isotopic abundance (usually tabulated natural isotopic abundance or certified isotopic 

abundance) of standard(s) and the altered isotope ratio(s) is (are) measured and used in the 

calculation to find the concentration of the isotopic spike. Usually, a high purity source of the 

natural material is used to calibrate and determine the concentration of the separated isotopic 

spike solution using this method. Only in the case of such elements as uranium, lead, and 

lithium are the natural isotopic abundances not constant in terrestrial materials. Molecules have 

natural isotopes also such as C-13, O-18, O18, N-15 that can alter the purity of the natural 

molecule and can be mathematically corrected. 

Spiking – Addition of the enriched isotopic species (spike) to the extract or appropriate sample. 

Single spiking – Addition of one enriched isotopic spike to the sample. 

Double spiking – Addition of two isotopic spikes to the sample. The two isotopic spikes are 

enriched in different isotopes, and are prepared in different chemical forms, each of which 

corresponds to a species form. 

Unidirectional conversion – One directional transformation occurring between two species. One 

species can convert to the other; the reverse transformation does not occur. 

Interconversion – Uni- or bi-directional transformation occurring between two species. Some 

species convert back and forth between two or more chemical forms. 

Time resolved analysis (TRA) – A data collection mode in which the data can be acquired at 

designated intervals for a continuously aspirated sample, over a user-defined period of time. 
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APPENDIX A 

SUMMARY OF REVISIONS TO METHOD 6800 

(AS COMPARED TO PREVIOUS REVISION 0, FEBRUARY 2007)

1. Update for molecular SIDMS capability as well as examples of Homeland Defense and 

Homeland Security and Human Health examples. 

2. Improved overall method formatting for consistency with new SW-846 methods style 

guidance. 

3. Inserted text describing use and application of LLOQ (Sec. 9.4). 

4. Minor editorial and technical revisions were made throughout to improve method clarity. 

5. New explicit and determinative SIDMS equations were added to the iterative equations 

previously described. 

6. Minor corrections to equations were made for accuracy. 

7. Examples of applications and data validating these applications were included. 

8. Literature examples of more molecular applications of the method were expanded.