3-Dimensional nonstationary model of electromagnetism and gas dynamics of a spectrochemical inductively coupled plasma with flat-plate inductors

Abstract

High-quality spectrochemical analysis based on inductively coupled plasma requires uniform and stable plasma conditions. This study investigates, via 3D magnetohydrodynamic modeling, the impact of inductor geometry on plasma stability. The model shows that the geometry of standard helical inductors can lead to asymmetric plasma fields, which result in torch deflection and turbulent backflow. In contrast, flat-plate inductors achieve improved symmetry by eliminating helical-driven inhomogeneities, while idealized closed ring inductors serve as a theoretical benchmark. Key findings suggest flat-plate inductors as potentially optimal choice for analytical precision and providing a foundation for improving plasma spectrometer design, particularly in signal stability and torch efficiency.