7 Sample Preparation

Surface preparation is critical and particular care is required in sample preparation to

ensure a clean flat surface is presented for OES measurement. The bottom surface is
machined using a lathe or milling machine to a specified depth (1422% of disk
thickness) below the original surface, according to ASTM E716-94. This depth is
important since it corresponds to the composition that best represents the average
composition of the whole disk. The surface finish should be smooth, with only fine tool
marks, and should be the same as the reference sample
7.1.1

Polish the sample at a depth of 1 mm, do cut step wise 0.4mm each first two cuts at a
speed between 500 to 600 rpm and the final cut at 1000rpm (ie 0.4+0.4+0.2). This depth
is important since it corresponds to the composition that best represents the average
composition of the whole disk. If the sample does not have a smooth surface after the
final cut, try to make a smooth surface again.

7.1.2

The surface to be analyzed should no longer be touched with the fingers after the
sample's surface preparation. This is also valid for the analysis table.