Dry analyte introduction system for ICP-MS optimization utilizing a dry plasma

Abstract

A solventless, multi-element, steady-state optimization system is presented. The device uses three parallel conduits that contain solid NbF₅ and SnBr₄ as well as a low wattage tungsten filament loaded with Pb to deliver dry vapors to an ICP. These are used to create a steady-state signal containing the following ions that can be used for tuning: ²⁸Si⁺, ⁷⁹Br⁺, ¹²⁰Sn⁺, ¹⁸⁴W⁺, and ²⁰⁸Pb⁺. In comparison to using a nebulizer for optimization, the dry plasma optimization produced an average enhancement of 4.5(±0.4)-fold for 26 elements when using electrothermal vaporization sample introduction.