Chemical Total Element Analysis (ICP-MS) is a widely used instrument technology in the field of chemical analysis. It is developed based on inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP) technology.
ICP-MS utilizes the principles of high-temperature plasma generated by inductively coupled plasma (ICP) and mass spectrometry to achieve high sensitivity and precision determination of multiple elements in samples. The working principle is briefly as follows:
1. Sample processing: Firstly, it is necessary to perform appropriate pre-treatment on the sample to be tested, usually including steps such as sample dissolution, dilution, and cleaning.
2. Ionization: The pre treated sample enters the ICP plasma through the injection system. At high temperatures, molecules and atoms in the sample are ionized to form charged ions.
3. Separation and detection: The ionized sample enters the mass spectrometer for separation and detection. The magnetic field in the mass spectrometer separates ions of different masses and detects them through a detector. The concentration of different elements can be determined based on their atomic masses.
4. Data analysis: By analyzing and processing the data output from the instrument, the content and distribution of each element in the sample can be obtained.
ICP-MS has the following characteristics:
1. High sensitivity: ICP-MS has extremely high sensitivity and can detect extremely trace elements in samples, usually reaching concentrations of ppt (10 ^ -12) or even lower.
2. Wide linear range: ICP-MS can handle a very wide range of element concentrations, allowing accurate determination from trace to high concentrations.
3. Multi element analysis: ICP-MS can simultaneously determine multiple elements, including metallic and non-metallic elements, and has the ability to perform full element analysis.
4. High accuracy: Due to its low instrument background and high resolution, ICP-MS can provide high analytical accuracy.
5. Fast analysis speed: ICP-MS has fast analysis speed and can efficiently analyze a large number of samples.
ICP-MS is widely used in fields such as environmental monitoring, biomedical research, geological exploration, food safety, drug testing, and materials science. It can be used for rapid and accurate determination of trace and trace elements in samples, and is of great significance for multi-element analysis and element tracking in research and monitoring.
