Trace element determinations in Fe–Mn oxides by high resolution ICP-MS after Tm addition

In order to propose an optimal analytical procedure specific to ferromanganese (Fe–Mn) oxides, we investigated different modes of data acquisition using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The results of trace element and Rare Earth Element (REE) determination in eight Fe–Mn nodules and crusts (FeMn-1, GSMC-1, GSMC-2, GSMC-3, GSPN-2, GSPN-3, NOD-A-1 and NOD-P-1) are presented here. The analytical procedure involves chemical dissolution of the Fe–Mn oxides and addition of a thulium (Tm) spike. The correction of measured values from potential isobaric interferences was investigated using both corrections based on mono-elemental solutions, and data acquisition in the high-resolution mode. The obtained results show that the high-resolution acquisition mode is unnecessary to achieve high quality data for REE in Fe–Mn oxides. Using our revised method, we provide a consistent set of precise and accurate values for eight widely used but poorly characterized certified reference materials. [Display omitted] •Revised methodology for trace element characterization of Fe–Mn oxides by ICP-MS.•REE and trace element abundances were determined in low and high resolution modes.•LR presents better RSD than the HR acquisition mode (2.5% vs 6.5%).•HR is unnecessary to achieve high quality REE measurements for Fe–Mn oxides.•We provide new reference data on a set of eight Fe–Mn standards.