The influence of true simultaneous internal standardization and background correction on repeatability for laser ablation and the slurry technique coupled to ICP emission spectrometry

Abstract

Micro-samples of human fingernails were analyzed for lead using Rhenium-cup, in-torch vaporization (ITV) sample introduction and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES). Lead concentrations were found to be in agreement with those reported in the literature. Direct elemental analysis of micro-samples of fingernails, minimum sample pre-treatment and, overall, increased speed of analysis are the main advantages of the approach.