Optimisation and evaluation of a sample introduction device for inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry using thermospray nebulisation

Abstract

A thermospray nebuliser, used for sample introduction into an ICP, was equipped with a heated spray chamber in order to enhance the detection power of the sample introduction system. The carrier gas flow, the aerosol (desolvation) temperature and the condenser temperature were optimised. At the optimised operating conditions about 10% of the nebulised analyte reaches the ICP. The detection limits obtained are comparable to those obtained using ultrasonic nebulisers. Both short- and long-term stability and matrix effects are discussed. Finally, data obtained for the determination of chromium, cadmium and silver in the standard samples EPA WPQCS2 and NBS SRM1643A show the analytical potential of the proposed system.