Identification of concentration gradients in a glow discharge atomisation cell using a low-cost XYΦ adjustable platform

Abstract

A simple, inexpensive optical mount for use with the Atomsource glow discharge direct solids atomiser has been designed and built. This mount allows adjustment of the atomiser in the horizontal, vertical and rotational (in the horizontal plane) modes relative to the optical path. The mount has been used in conjunction with the associated spectrometer, the Analyte 16 Atomic Absorption Spectrometer, to illustrate the presence of concentration gradients of sputtered species within the Atomsource plasma. From these data, general mass transport patterns and regions of enhanced ionisation in the Atomsource can be identified. The optimum location in the plasma from which to sample using atomic absorption detection of sputtered material can also be established.