Development of a new reference material for accurate measurements of lithium in Li-clays

Abstract Currently, there are no national and international certified reference materials (CRM) in lithium clays that can make reliable and traceable lithium measurements for the International System of Units (SI). Hence, it is necessary to have references to meet the needs in terms of mining and activities that involve the use of lithium to favor the economy derived from its multiple uses and associated benefits in the exploration, exploitation, and handling of lithium ore. In this study, a candidate for reference material (RM) of Li in clays was developed and certified based on the provisions of ISO 17034:2016 and ISO Guide 35:2017. Different mass sizes of the RM (0.05, 0.1, and 0.25 g) were used to evaluate homogeneity. An isochronous study (short-term stability) was carried out in the assessment of stability, influenced by the effects of transport at different temperatures (20, 40, and 50 °C) for a determined time of 6 weeks, in addition to a classic (long-term) study for 19 weeks. The sample was treated using microwave-assisted acid digestion and Li measurements were performed using the analytical technique of Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (FAAS). The CRM is homogeneous for the sample mass sizes of 0.05 and 0.1 g, and the mass fraction of w(Li) was stable in the RM for temperatures of 20, 40, and 50 °C. The determined period of validity was 3 years.