Direct inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry for analysis of waste samarium-cobalt magnets

An analytical procedure for direct determination of Al, Mg, Ti, Cr, Mn, Nb, La, Nd, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Tm, Yb, Lu, Hf, Ni, Cu, Fe, Zr Sm and Co by ICP-OES in waste samarium-cobalt magnets has been developed. The significant influence of the matrix on all determinable components has been shown. The influence of operation parameters (ICP power and nebuliser flow rate) on the matrix effect has been studied using two plasma observation modes (axial and radial). For the first time, the optimal conditions for ICP-OES analysis of waste samarium-cobalt magnets has been sub-stantiated (ICP power 1400 W, nebuliser flow rate 0.5-0.6 L/min). The analytical capabilities of the method have been evaluated using spike recovery test, certified reference materials and comparison with ICP-MS. ICP-OES measurements were performed in the axial mode for trace elements (with concentrations of n.10(-4)-n.10(-2) % wt.) and in the radial mode for matrix elements and analytes (with concentrations higher than n.10(-2) % wt.). The limits of quantification (LOQs) were in the range of n.10(-5) wt% for Mn, Zr and Yb and n.10(-4) wt% for Al, Mg, Ti, Cr, Hf, La, Ni, Cu, Tb, Lu, Nb, Fe, Nd, Eu, Gd, Dy and Tm. RSD ranged from 0.2 to 10.6%. (C) 2021 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of King Saud University.

Automated summary

An analytical procedure for direct determination of multiple elements in waste samarium-cobalt magnets by ICP-OES has been developed, with optimal conditions for analysis substantiated. The analytical capabilities of the method have been evaluated and stability confirmed through various tests and comparison with ICP-MS. The study provides valuable insights into measuring trace and matrix elements in such waste materials.