In the metal industry, some samples can be challenging to analyse. An inappropriate sample preparation method can lead to inconsistent analytical results and even render the samples impossible to analyse. For example, concentrates that contain partly reduced materials can cause problems when using lithium borate fusion. If this type of sample is not correctly oxidized during the sample preparation process, it can chemically alloy and attack the platinumware. Also, if the fusion method is not optimal, it can lead to the loss of volatile elements that are crucial to accurately determine the sample type and its characterizations.
