In situ measurement of sulfur isotope ratios in sulfide samples with LA-ICP-MS/MS using N2O and He reaction gas†
Abstract
Sulfur isotope signatures (δ34S) in sulfide minerals such as pyrite and pyrrhotite may reflect the specific geological conditions at their genesis. Understanding the δ34S variability can help track (bio)–geochemical processes, from ore formation to finding evidence of early life. However, as sulfide mineral growth can occur at various stages of rock history, traditional bulk S isotope analysis can incorporate mixed geochemical signals generated by unrelated processes. In situ analytical techniques can be used to investigate compositional changes in δ34S caused by early environmental or secondary processes. In this study, we aim to characterize δ34S variability in pyrite and pyrrhotite using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma tandem mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS/MS) while introducing a mixture of N2O and He in the reaction chamber to remove polyatomic interferences at m/z = 32 and m/z = 34. Alongside tuning the respective laser and ICP parameters, we employ a self-developed signal-smoothing device consisting of coiled thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) tubing and a cyclonic spray chamber to achieve better signal stability. In this way, we propose a new, fast, in situ screening approach for measuring the δ34S of sulfides.