Probe design for the direct insertion of solid samples in the inductively coupled plasma for analysis by atomic emission and mass spectrometry

Abstract

An alternative to the conventional probes used for the direct introduction of solid samples into the inductively coupled plasma is presented. Powdered samples have been mixed with graphite and pressed into pellets, which were then inserted into the plasma. Unlike other probes, such as graphite cups, the whole body of these pellets was composed of sample mixture, so more sample could be inserted into the plasma at once. For some elements, the resulting improvement in detection limits was commensurate with the increased mass of sample whereas for other elements it was greater, suggesting that the absence of walls on the probes may result in better heat and mass transfers.