1.1 This test method covers measuring the concentrations of trace metallic impurities in high purity aluminum.

1.2 This test method pertains to analysis by magnetic-sector glow discharge mass spectrometer (GDMS).

1.3 The aluminum matrix must be 99.9 weight % (3N-grade) pure, or purer, with respect to metallic impurities. There must be no major alloy constituent, for example, silicon or copper, greater than 1000 weight ppm in concentration.

1.4 This test method does not include all the information needed to complete GDMS analyses. Sophisticated computer-controlled laboratory equipment skillfully used by an experienced operator is required to achieve the required sensitivity. This test method does cover the particular factors (for example, specimen preparation, setting of relative sensitivity factors, determination of sensitivity limits, etc.) known by the responsible technical committee to affect the reliability of high purity aluminum analyses.