Direct Solid Sampling Methods Using a Plasma Gun Device For Sample Introduction Into an ICP

Abstract

A pulsed plasma device suitable for the direct analysis of solid materials has been developed and studied in our laboratory for a number of years. We have successfully coupled this plasma gun device with an ICP and have demonstrated the use of pure calibration standards for matrix-independent elemental analysis of refractory solids. Here we report on two advances in the development of methods and new instrumentation for these analyses. First, studies investigating the utility of using the plasma gun for external sampling will be presented and compared with earlier work involving sample deposition inside the discharge tube. External sampling methods should improve the sampling efficiency and permit the analysis of bulk solid materials (in addition to powdered materials). Next, initial studies of solid sampling processes in an electrodeless plasma gun device will be presented.

1999 FACSS Conference; Vancouver, B.C., Canada