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Exploration of microwave plasma source cavity ring-down spectroscopy for elemental measurements
Yixiang Duan1, Chuji Wang, Christopher B Winstead
1C-ACS, MS K484, Los Alamos National Laboratory, New Mexico 87545, USA. yduan@lanl.gov
Analytical Chemistry
|May 2, 2003
Summary
We developed a new elemental measurement technique using cavity ring-down spectroscopy (CRDS) and a microwave plasma source. This sensitive method achieved a detection limit of 0.8 ppb for lead, demonstrating its potential for precise elemental analysis.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Spectroscopy
- Atomic Physics
Background:
- Conventional absorption techniques lack high sensitivity for elemental measurements.
- Cavity Ring-Down Spectroscopy (CRDS) offers significantly enhanced sensitivity.
- Microwave plasma sources provide a compact and efficient atomic absorption cell.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel, highly sensitive instrument for elemental measurements.
- To combine CRDS with a compact microwave plasma source.
- To demonstrate the feasibility and optimize the performance of this new technique.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a laboratory CRDS system with a tunable dye laser.
- Employed a custom-designed sampling system for solution introduction.
- Monitored ring-down signals via a photomultiplier tube and digital oscilloscope.
- Optimized and characterized the system using lead as a test element.
Main Results:
- Achieved a detection limit of 0.8 ppb (parts per billion) for lead.
- Demonstrated the feasibility of using a compact microwave plasma source as an atomic absorption cell within a CRDS system.
- Reported on the effects of baseline noise from the plasma source.
Conclusions:
- The combination of CRDS and a compact microwave plasma source provides a highly sensitive method for elemental analysis.
- The developed instrument shows significant potential for improving elemental measurement capabilities.
- Further optimization may lead to even lower detection limits and broader applicability.
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