CRM Nickel (Ni) - Aqueous calibration solution ASTASOL® AN903810N

Significance of the topic

Aqueous calibration solutions based on certified reference materials (CRMs) are essential for accurate determination of trace metals in environmental, industrial, and research laboratories. A well-characterized nickel standard in dilute nitric acid supports method validation, quality control, and ensures metrological traceability to SI units.

Objectives and study overview

This document presents the certification of ASTASOL® AN903810N, an aqueous nickel calibration solution produced by Analytika, spol. s r.o. The aim was to establish a reliable concentration value with expanded uncertainty, verify homogeneity and stability, and provide impurity profiles for user information.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The primary preparation was performed gravimetrically, ensuring direct traceability to the kilogram. Certified concentration and uncertainty were confirmed by:

• Complexometric titration using NIST SRM 928.
• Parallel determination against NIST SRM 3136 by atomic spectrometric techniques.
• Impurity screening by AAS, ICP-OES, and ICP-MS to document trace element levels.

Main results and discussion

The certified nickel concentration is 10 000 mg/L with an expanded uncertainty of ±20 mg/L at 20 °C. Density was measured as 1.0490 g/cm3 ±0.0005. Trace impurities of over 60 elements were quantified below their respective detection limits, confirming high purity. Homogeneity tests and real-time stability studies support a shelf life of five years under recommended storage (5–30 °C).

Benefits and practical applications

This CRM enables precise calibration of AAS, AES, ICP-OES, ICP-MS, molecular absorption, and selected electroanalytical methods. Its SI traceability and low uncertainty enhance data comparability, support regulatory compliance, and facilitate inter-laboratory studies.

Future trends and possibilities

Advancements may include digital certification with blockchain-based traceability, development of multi-element ultra-trace CRMs, and integration with automated dilution and microfluidic platforms. Expanded stability monitoring using accelerated aging models could refine shelf-life predictions.

Conclusion

ASTASOL® AN903810N represents a high-quality nickel calibration solution with robust certification and low uncertainty. Its comprehensive impurity profile, confirmed homogeneity, and stability make it a reliable tool for analytical laboratories.

Reference

• ANALYTIKA, spol. s r.o. Certificate ASTASOL® AN903810N, Department of Reference Materials, 2020.