Optical-Emission-Spectrometry with Inductively-Coupled-Plasma (ICP-OES)

Method
The optical emission spectrometry makes use of the characteristic specific radiation caused by excited atoms. The excitation results from an inductively-coupled-argon-plasma, into which the solution is introduced by a nebulizer system. The intensity of the emitted radiation is specific for an element and is detected by a high-resolution spectrometer. This method enables the qualitative and quantitative multi-element determination (simultaneously about 70 elements) of main and minor components as well as traces in solution. The calibration proceeds by mixed multi-element standards, which are matrix-matched with respect to the sample.

Sample preparation
Digestion methods such as microwave, high-pressure, acid, and fusion digestion are employed for the sample preparation of solids.

Required amount of sample
Quantities of approximately 30 – 50 mg for major and minor components and at least 150 – 300 mg for traces are required.

Instrumentation
VISTA (Varian):
Simultaneous ICP – OES Echelle spectrometer with CCD detector and radially viewed plasma system, range of wavelength 167 – 785 nm.