Heavy metals testing is not a single universal test. The elements, preparation, instrument, limits and reporting units should be selected for the sample and the market in which the result will be used.
Typical analytical scope
Panels commonly include lead, arsenic, cadmium and mercury, but project needs vary. Other elemental impurities may be relevant because of raw materials, catalysts, manufacturing equipment or a customer specification.
Sample preparation and instruments
Laboratories commonly digest the material and use techniques such as ICP-MS or ICP-OES. Method selection depends on the expected concentration, matrix and required reporting limits.
Reading the result
A result may be a measured concentration or a value below a reporting limit. Confirm whether the unit is mg/kg, µg/g, ppm or another basis and whether the specification applies to the same product category.
- Element name
- Result and unit
- Limit of quantification or reporting limit
- Test method
- Agreed specification and conclusion
Accreditation scope
CMA, CNAS or another recognition applies to a particular legal entity, location, method and scope. Request current evidence for the exact project when an accredited report is required, rather than relying on a general company description.