Determination of Boron Isotopic Composition in Natural Samples by Thermal Ionization Mass Spectrometry

Thermal ionization mass spectrometry has been used for the determination of isotopic composition of boron in natural samples, like water, with an improved degree of accuracy and precision. After concentration and separation boron is treated with an excess of sodium hydroxide in order to convert it completely to sodium metaborate. The excess of sodium hydroxide present in the sample causes problems in the isotopic analysis. This excess is neutralized with 0.1M nitric acid on the filament while loading the sample by a special technique. This procedure improves the precision and accuracy of the analysis to a large extent.