Gelatin gels as multi-element calibration standards in LA-ICP-MS bioimaging: Fabrication of homogeneous standards and microhomogeneity testing

Abstract

Highly homogeneous multi-element gelatin calibration standards were fabricated for quantitative LA-ICP-MS bioimaging. Heterogeneity issues caused by the so-called "coffee-stain" and/or "Marangoni" effects were found to be element-dependent but could be circumvented by careful selection of drying/setting conditions. A micro-homogeneity test was developed for certification of the standards.