Non-quantitative Hg cold-vapor generation can compromise the accuracy of Hg isotope analysis, and it should be monitored and optimized by performing matrix separation, adopting the design of gas–liquid separators, and tuning the sample uptake rate.
A new strategy for determining the Hg isotopes in low Hg concentration samples is proposed, utilizing the flow injection plasma electrochemical vapor generation (FI-PEVG) sampling technique coupled with MC-ICPMS.
The application range of high-precision isotopic analysis for identifying the origin of Hg in environmental compartments was extended to samples with lower concentrations levels by using of faraday cup amplifiers with higher ohmic resistance.
An efficient protocol for separating inorganic mercury and methylmercury from marine biota for high-precision isotopic analysis.
By refining analytical techniques, we achieve high precision in Hg isotope measurements of natural carbonates and present a novel application of Hg stable isotopes in coral skeletons and stalagmites to trace historical variation trends.