Evaluation of a linear-flow torch for inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry

Abstract

Simplex optimized operating conditions for a linear-flow torch (LiFT) were evaluated with respect to those for a conventional tangential-flow torch (TFT). The LiFT was shown to out-perform an 18 mm i.d. TFT in terms of gas consumption, precision, long-term stability, noise amplitude and level of background molecular-band emission. However, the two types of torches offered comparable detection limits and similar responses to the addition of an easily ionizable element.