Nebuliser system for analysis of high salt content solutions with an inductively coupled plasma

Abstract

A nebuliser system for analysis of high salt content steel samples using an inductively coupled plasma is described. Because of its design this nebuliser system is capable of continuous operation with solutions of up to 10% salt content without clogging. The fabrication of the nebuliser was effected in a new and simple way. The effects on line to background ratios for several element lines which increased in intensity with higher salt concentrations were studied. Comparisons were also made with a conventional nebuliser system; the new system gave higher line to background ratios for the same salt concentrations. Analytical results for various amounts of steels containing trace and normal contents of other elements are discussed. For trace contents the relative standard deviations of the determinations were improved when salt concentrations up to 10% were used. No memory effects were noticed and the nebuliser system had a rapid clean-out time. Analysis was carried out using a computerised image dissector échelle spectrometer.