Plasma mass spectrometry: consider the source. Invited lecture

Abstract

The use of mixed-gas, helium and nitrogen plasmas as alternative sources for plasma mass spectrometry is discussed in this paper. These plasmas are used to alleviate some of the problems inherent in argon inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Spectroscopic and non-spectroscopic interferences as well as sensitivities for high ionization potential elements are addressed. Reduced-pressure plasmas are used for the determination of P and S. In addition, applications of chromatographic techniques such as gas, supercritical-fluid and high-performance liquid chromatography with alternative plasma sources are included. Some problems found in the application of argon ICP-MS can be reduced or eliminated with alternative sources and sub-ng to sub-pg levels of detection for halogens can be achieved.