Nebulisation characteristics of a microprocessor-controlled recirculating nebuliser for inductively coupled plasma atomic-emission spectrometric analysis of small sample volumes

Abstract

The performance and nebulisation characteristics of a recirculating nebuliser used for sequential inductively coupled plasma atomic-emission spectrometric analysis of small sample volumes are described. Constraints in the design and application of the system have been identified and are discussed. Under normal operating conditions the performance is such that 20-min continuous operation of the nebuliser, with consumption of only 2 ml of sample, is achieved with a sensitivity, precision and stability comparable to those using a conventional nebuliser system.