High-precision synthetic sediment standard for IRMS and TOC 

Announcing B2251 – tailored composition, consistent results 

Elemental Microanalysis, a global leader in elemental analysis supplies, has introduced the first in a new series of synthetic sediment standards designed for isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) and total organic carbon (TOC) analysis.

The new reference material, B2251, replicates the elemental composition of natural sediment using carefully selected mineral and chemical ingredients. This synthetic approach allows for precise tailoring to match specific matrix requirements, offering researchers a closer fit for their analytical needs.

B2251 is a high-organic-content sediment standard certified for TOC, total carbon, nitrogen, and sulphur. Elemental’s R&D team plans to expand the range during 2025, developing additional synthetic standards to support studies on carbonate removal techniques and to simulate the IRMS behaviour of previously sourced natural soils and sediments.

Synthetic standards offer key advantages over natural equivalents: greater batch-to-batch consistency, fewer regulatory hurdles, and simplified global shipping thanks to the absence of export controls linked to irradiated natural soil.

Elemental Microanalysis also supplies a broad selection of synthetic soil standards certified for carbon, nitrogen, and sulphur content.

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