Abstract

A tandem cyclone-Scott type spray chamber configuration combined with infrared heating and a low-flow Micromist nebulizer was evaluated for the use in a ICP-SFMS sample introduction system. The system provides about a 3-fold sensitivity gain and lower oxide formation compared to the standard introduction system, although matrix-induced signal suppression is more pronounced, especially for elements with high ionization potential. The technique was evaluated by accurate analysis of riverine water reference material SLRS-3 with generally good agreement with certified and literature values. Long-term precision at a 20 µg l⁻¹ concentration level was 0.7% RSD in low resolution and 1.6% RSD in medium resolution. Precision in the range 0.03–0.09% RSD for lead isotope ratios at 1 µg l⁻¹ was obtained.