CRM Tin (Sn) - Aqueous calibration solution ASTASOL® AN8055FN

Significance of the Topic

This certified reference material (CRM) for tin (Sn) in aqueous solution addresses a critical need in analytical chemistry for reliable calibration standards. Accurate quantification of trace metals supports quality control, regulatory compliance and research across environmental, industrial and clinical laboratories. The availability of a well-characterized tin solution enhances confidence in measurements by atomic spectrometric and electroanalytical techniques.

Study Objectives and Overview

The primary objective was to produce and certify ASTASOL® AN8055FN, an aqueous calibration solution containing tin at 100 mg/L. The study encompassed gravimetric preparation, homogeneity and stability assessment, verification of certified value and uncertainty evaluation. Key deliverables include a detailed certificate, trace impurity profile and storage instructions.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The CRM was prepared by accurately weighing high-purity tin (99.999 %) into an acidified matrix (5 % HNO₃, 1 % HF). Traceability to the SI unit kilogram was ensured via gravimetric methods. Certified concentration and uncertainty were confirmed through complexometric titration using NIST SRM 928. Impurity profiling employed:

• Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS)
• Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES)
• Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)

Used Instrumentation

• Analytical microbalances for gravimetric preparation
• Class A volumetric flasks and calibrated pipettes
• Titration apparatus for complexometric analysis
• AAS, ICP-OES and ICP-MS for impurity determination
• Temperature-controlled environment for density measurement

Main Results and Discussion

The certified concentration of tin is 100.0 ± 0.2 mg/L (k = 2) at 20 °C, with a solution density of 1.0345 ± 0.0005 g/cm³. Mass fraction (96.7 ± 0.3 mg/kg) was derived from density. Impurity levels for over 70 elements were below detection limits or at sub-µg/L levels, demonstrating high purity. Homogeneity tests confirmed uniform distribution across production batches. Stability studies under recommended storage (5–30 °C) and handling conditions validate the five-year shelf life and twelve-month post-opening usability.

Benefits and Practical Applications

ASTASOL AN8055FN enables precise calibration and method validation in various analytical workflows:

• Atomic spectrometry (AAS, AES, ICP-OES, ICP-MS)
• Molecular absorption techniques
• Electroanalytical methods

This CRM reduces calibration uncertainty, improves data comparability across laboratories and supports compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Advancements may include multi-element CRMs in mixed matrices, miniaturized gravimetric systems for automated preparation and eco-friendly acid alternatives. Integration with digital certificates and blockchain traceability could further enhance data integrity. Expanding certified value ranges and matrices will address emerging analytical challenges in environmental monitoring, food safety and nanomaterial analysis.

Conclusion

ASTASOL AN8055FN represents a robust tin CRM, characterized by high purity, stringent traceability and comprehensive quality control. Its reliable performance supports a wide array of spectrometric and electroanalytical applications, fostering accuracy and consistency in quantitative metal analysis.

References

• ISO Guide 31: Reference Materials – Contents of Certificates and Labels
• ISO 17034:2017 – General Requirements for the Competence of Reference Material Producers
• NIST SRM 928 – Certified Indium Standard for Titrametric Analysis