Hi, I'm trying to digest HgTe QDs for a ICP-MS analysis but I don't have a microwave, how can I do without a microwave? is it okay to try with only nitric acid and 0.5% of HCl?
You could ask around your University chemical analysis laboratory and see if they have a microwave digestion system. If they don't, there is probably another university or fee-for-service analytical lab that does soils and plants or metallurgy or something similar in the nearby region. Turin must have a couple of chemistry departments in the area. Depending on how many samples you have they may charge a per-sample fee or a flat rate for a whole carousel.
If that is too inconvenient, you could try it yourself, but you will probably need a hotblock capable of up to 120degC, (boiling point of 68% nitric acid), a good fumehood and some experience in handling corrosive chemicals. If there is mercury involved, you will have to account for volatilization issues so a closed tube digest is probably essential. Some sort of quality control sample is also necessary to quantify the completeness of the digest, otherwise you're just engaging in recreational chemistry.
I have no idea how easily these QD things break down in acid, so cannot suggest a digestion protocol for you. I would consult the aforementioned laboratory and see what the experts can suggest.