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Microwave Digestion of REEs and PGMs for Elemental Analysis

Rare earth elements (REEs) and platinum group metals (PGMs) are critical to advanced materials, catalysts, electronics, energy technologies, and geochemical applications. Their accurate elemental analysis often begins with the most challenging step: achieving complete, reproducible sample digestion while minimizing contamination, losses, and residual solids.

This webinar will discuss practical microwave-assisted digestion strategies for REE- and PGM-containing samples. We will review how sample matrix, mineralogy, acid selection, temperature, pressure, and vessel material influence digestion performance, with examples of commonly used acid systems including HNO3, HCl, HF, and H2SO4. Attendees will also learn how to recognize incomplete digestion, select an appropriate digestion approach for difficult matrices, and prepare samples suitable for downstream ICP-OES or ICP-MS analysis.

Key takeaways: 

  • Understand why REE- and PGM-containing matrices can be difficult to digest
  • Select appropriate acids and microwave digestion conditions based on sample composition
  • Recognize signs and common causes of incomplete digestion
  • Understand key safety and vessel considerations for aggressive acid mixtures
  • Prepare reproducible digests for subsequent ICP-OES or ICP-MS analysis
Mr. Khang Nguyen (Langues: English)
Khang Nguyen

Khang Nguyen is an Application Scientist at Anton Paar USA. He supports analytical instrumentation and application development across the Western United States, with experience in microwave digestion, FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, and particle characterization. His background includes biotechnology, chemistry, biomaterials R&D, and analytical method development for complex sample matrices.