A new approach to the analysis of solid materials (original) (raw)

Conical Torch: The Next-Generation Inductively Coupled Plasma Source for Spectrochemical Analysis

Analytical Chemistry, 2017

A completely new ICP torch for optical/mass spectrometry is introduced with a conical geometry leading to significant reduction in gas and power consumption. As a new holistic methodology, the torch has been designed based on fluid flow patterns, heat transfer, plasma physics, and analytical performance. Computer simulations, capable of accounting for magneto-hydrodynamic effects, have been used to optimize torch geometry. The result is a "conical" torch with up to 70% reduction in argon flow and more than 4 times power density compared with traditional "cylindrical" torches. Based on experimental measurements, these features lead to a stable plasma with 1000-1700K higher excitation/rotational temperature and a 5-fold increase in electron number density compared to common torches. Interferences from easily-ionizable elements (e.g., Na) are also observed to be minimized due to 3 times higher robustness (Mg II/Mg I ratio). Eventually, analytical parameters including detection limits for multi-element analysis indicate comparable/better performance of the new torch in comparison with conventional torches.

New Procedure for Quantitative Elemental Analysis by Laser-Induced Plasma Spectroscopy

Applied Spectroscopy, 1999

A new procedure, based on the laser-induced plasm a spectro scopy (LIPS) tech nique, is proposed for calibration-free quantitative elemental analysis of materials. The m ethod here presented, based on an algorithm developed and patented by IFAM-CNR, allows the matrix effects to be overcom e, yielding precise and accurate quantitative results on elem ental com position of m aterials without use of calibration curves. Some applications of the m ethod are illustrated, for quantitative analysis of the composition of metallic alloys and quantitative determ ination of the composition of the atmosphere.

A versatile new torch for inductively coupled plasma spectrometry

Analytica Chimica Acta, 1980

A modified torch for optical emission spectrometry with an inductively coupled plasma source is described. The demountable torch incorporates a flared intermediate ixbe, a capillary injector tube and interchangeable jets at the gas inlets. The optimised performance of the torch is compared with that of a conventional torch. The new torch can be operated over a wide range of gas flows and shows considerable promise in work with an argon-cooled plasma. The ability to operate at high or low gas flow rates, and the possibility of interchanging tubes and jets easily illustrate theversatility of the new design.

Inorganic Analysis of Solids by Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma-Cource Mass Spectrometry

Revista brasileira de aplicações de vácuo, 1991

Use of a Iaser for solid sample introduction to an inductiveIy coupled plasma (ICP) mass spectrometer is described. The effect of free-running Iaser pulses on metaIs, as revealed by scanning eIectron microscopy (SEM), is outlined. System optimization is sketched, and the use of the technique illustrated by the analysis of four nickel-base alloys.

An evaluation of a commercial Échelle spectrometer with intensified charge-coupled device detector for materials analysis by laser-induced plasma spectroscopy

Spectrochimica Acta Part B: Atomic Spectroscopy, 2001

n this work we evaluate the performance of a commercial Echelle spectrometer coupled with an intensified Ž. Ž. charge-coupled device ICCD detector for the analysis of solid samples by laser-induced plasma spectroscopy LIPS in air at atmospheric pressure. We compare results obtained in aluminum alloy samples with this system and with a Ž. 'conventional' Czerny-Turner spectrometer coupled to an intensified photodiode array IPDA. We used both systems to generate calibration curves and to determine the detection limit of minor elements, such as Mg, Cu, Si, etc. Our results indicate that no significant differences in terms of analytical figures of merit exist between thé EchellerICCD system and a conventional Czerny-Turner spectrometer with IPDA. Moreover, measurements of plasma temperature and electron density using the two assemblies give, in general, very similar results. In the second part of this work, we aim to present a critical view of the Echelle spectrometer for LIPS applications, by drawing up the balance sheet of the advantages and limitations of the apparatus. The limitations are either inherent to the dispersion method, or result from the dynamic range of the detector. Moreover, the minimum ICCD readout timé does not allow a fast data acquisition rate. On the other hand, the Echelle spectrometer allows complete elemental analysis in a single shot, as spectral lines of major, minor and trace constituents, as well as plasma parameters, are measured simultaneously. This enables a real-time identification of unknown matrices and an improvement in the analytical precision by selecting several lines for the same element.