ICP-Mass Spectrometry

Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) is a type of mass spectrometry that is capable of detecting metals and several non-metals at concentrations as low as one part in 1012 (part per trillion). This is achieved by ionizing the sample with inductively coupled plasma and then using a mass spectrometer to separate and quantify those ions. Compared to atomic absorption techniques, ICP-MS has greater speed, precision, and sensitivity. However, analysis by ICP-MS is also more susceptible to trace contaminants from glassware and reagents. In addition, the presence of some ions can interfere with the detection of other ions. The variety of applications exceeds that of ICP-OES and includes isotopic speciation. Due to possible applications in nuclear technologies, ICP-MS hardware is a subject for special exporting regulations. Inductively coupled plasma An inductively coupled plasma is a plasma that is energized (ionized) by inductivel...

  Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) is a type of mass spectrometry that is capable of detecting metals and several non-metals at concentrations as low as one part in 1012 (part per trillion). This is achieved by ionizing the sample with inductively coupled plasma and then using a mass spectrometer to separate and quantify those ions. Inductively coupled plasma is the plasma that is energized by inductively heating the argon gas with an electrical coil and contains a sufficient concentration of ions and electrons to make the gas electrically conductive. A number of different ICP-MS designs are commercially available today and share similar components such as the nebulizer, spray chamber, plasma torch, interface, and detector.  The liquid sample is pumped into a nebulizer where it is converted into a fine aerosol with argon gas. The fine droplets (1-2%) are separated from larger droplets using a spray chamber. The ...