Naturally occurring molecular species used for plasma diagnostics and signal correction in microwave-induced plasma optical emission spectrometry

In the present study, we evaluate the N 2 + /OH emission intensity ratio as a diagnostic tool for identifying the best instrumental operating conditions in microwave-induced plasma optical emission spectrometry (MIP OES). This molecular species signal ratio is compared with the traditional Mg II/Mg...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of analytical atomic spectrometry 2018-07, Vol.33 (7), p.1224-1232
Main Authors: Williams, Charles B., Jones, Bradley T., Donati, George L.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Aluminum
Analytical chemistry
Barium
Calcium
Diagnostic software
Diagnostic systems
Emission analysis
Magnesium
Manganese
Molecular chains
Optical emission spectroscopy
Plasma
Plasma diagnostics
Scientific imaging
Spectrometry
Strontium
Zinc
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Summary:In the present study, we evaluate the N 2 + /OH emission intensity ratio as a diagnostic tool for identifying the best instrumental operating conditions in microwave-induced plasma optical emission spectrometry (MIP OES). This molecular species signal ratio is compared with the traditional Mg II/Mg I ratio. Aluminum, Ba, Mn, Sr and Zn (analytes), and high concentrations of C, Na, Ca, HNO 3 and HCl (sample matrices) are used as models to investigate the effects of complex matrices on analyte recoveries. The N 2 + /OH signal ratio is more sensitive to changes in plasma conditions than the Mg II/Mg I ratio. Some other advantages include real-time monitoring capabilities, and the possibility of independently tracking variations in both plasma and sample introduction. For less complex matrices, the N 2 + /OH signal ratio may be used for instrument optimization, which ensures plasma conditions are as similar as possible when analyzing standard solutions and samples. For analyses involving severe matrix effects, molecular species such as CN, N 2 , N 2 + and OH are used for signal correction. Significant improvements in accuracy are achieved by employing the analyte-to-molecular species signal ratio, or their product, for calibration. Both the use of the N 2 + /OH signal ratio as a diagnostic tool, and of molecular species for signal correction to minimize matrix effects are simple strategies that may significantly contribute to expanding the analytical capabilities of MIP OES and facilitating its application in routine analysis.
ISSN:0267-9477
1364-5544
DOI:10.1039/C8JA00086G