Since recently we are also measuring the element neodymium with our ICP-MS analysis service (Seawater and Freshwater)
Neodym: never heard before! What is this element and why is it relevant?
Neodymium belongs to the rare earth metals Its main use is in very strong permanent magnets (so called neodymium boron iron magnets), which are often also used in and around the aquarium. Elevated levels of neodymium point towards a corroding magnet.
Several studies were published on the toxicity of neodymium. In this paper the accumulation of neodymium in marine mussels is described, which leads to significant changes in metabolism and oxidative stress. Fot this reason elevated Nd levels should be avoided in aquaria.
Our limit of detection for neodymium is ~0,015 µg/l which allows save quantification, even at very low levels.
You can get the ICP-MS analysis kit for seawater here:
