ICP-MS & ICP-OES
ICP-MS and ICP-OES
Elemental analysis can be obtained by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) and Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES).
These tools are commonly used to analyse elemental concentrations within rock samples, however, they may also be used for the analysis of a wide variety of sample types, both solid and liquids.
- Quantify the abundance of ~50 elements including major, trace, and the Rare Earth Elements
- Analyse both liquids and solids
Our standard analytical protocol involves using a flux fusion methodology to turn the sample into a liquid suitable for analysis with our ICP-MS and ICP-OES instruments. We can also carry out acid digestion, leachate and laser ablation analysis as required. The liquid is introduced into the ICP through a nebulizer in the form of an aerosol which is then ionized in the machine’s plasma.
The ICP-MS detects the mass of the ions hitting its detector and provides a mass spectrum for the sample, with the intensity of each peak in the spectrum being directly proportional to the concentration within the sample. This concentration is quantified by comparing the intensities of the mass spectrum to known calibration standards.
The ICP-OES differs in that it measures the effect of the aerosol on the plasma itself. When the aerosol is introduced to the plasma the elements contained within it lose electrons and give off radiation with wavelengths characteristic to the element itself. The optical spectrometer detects this radiated energy and through comparison with the intensities of known calibration standards, quantifies the elemental abundance within the sample.
By analysing the sample on both ICP-MS and ICP-OES it is possible to quantify the abundance of ~50 elements including major, trace, and the Rare Earth Elements. If you would like samples to be run on one individual instrument, the ICP-MS provides an analysis of trace and rare earth elements to ppt detection limits, whereas the ICP-OES provides a rapid analysis of major and some trace elements to mid ppb detection. Data from our ICP systems are routinely submitted for the GeoPT programme for the characterisation of new international rock standards. Copies of our GeoPT results can be supplied on request.
