The chemical analysis of inorganic matrices such as soils, sediments and rocks to determine the total concentrations of major and trace elements requires that the powdered samples be completely solubilised by means of a “total” acid attack in a closed microwave system (or digester). This operation uses a mixture of strong acids to obtain a homogeneous solution without altering the original chemical composition of the solid samples being tested. The method used for the mineralisation of soils and sediments complies with EPA 3052, but the microwave system can be used with alternative extraction solutions depending on specific requirements.
