"Do it yourself" reference materials for [delta]^sup 13^C determinations by isotope ratio mass spectrometry

• Published in: Analytical and bioanalytical chemistry 2013-05, Vol.405 (14), p.4959
• Main Authors: Carter, J F, Fry, B
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Carbon; Carbon isotopes; Glucose; Ionization; Isotopes; Laboratories; Mass spectrometry; Quality assurance; Quality control; Quality standards; Reference materials; Scientific imaging; Stable isotopes
• ISSN: 1618-2642; 1618-2650
• DOI: 10.1007/s00216-013-6851-z

Issue Title: Repeat MALDI MS imaging of single tissue sections/Dielectric barrier discharge ionization mass spectrometry/Application of graphene for the analysis of pharmaceuticals/"Do it yourself" reference materials for δ 13C determinations A method is described to prepare inexpensive organic reference materials for routine stable isotope work. The method blends isotope-enriched and isotope-depleted materials to match closely international measurement standards. Examples are presented showing how ^sup 13^C-enriched and ^sup 13^C-depleted glucose were blended to match the isotopic compositions of the international carbon isotope standards, NBS 19 and L-SVEC. Preparation of the blended standards was straightforward, and the prepared solutions proved easy to dispense into tin capsules and easy to combust in a conventional isotope analysis system. The blended materials allow a laboratory to perform a two-point calibration for isotopic composition on a daily basis, with the use of an international reference material recommended for routine quality assurance. The blending method can be applied widely to make isotope standards for other elements and compounds.