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Published on: October 23, 2018
Evaluation of a pulsed EIMAC source for atomic-fluorescence spectrometry.
D J Johnson1, W K Fowler, J D Winefordner
1Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, U.S.A.
Talanta
|April 1, 1977
Summary
Pulsed xenon arc lamps offer no advantage over continuous-wave operation for atomic-fluorescence spectrometry. The pulsed mode proved unstable, produced significant background noise, and required specific operating conditions.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Spectroscopy
- Atomic Fluorescence Spectrometry
Background:
- Atomic-fluorescence spectrometry (AFS) is a sensitive analytical technique.
- Continuum sources are often used in AFS, but their performance can be limited.
- Pulsed sources may offer advantages in certain spectroscopic applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate an EIMAC xenon arc continuum source in pulsed mode for AFS.
- To compare the performance of the pulsed source against continuous-wave operation.
- To identify potential benefits and drawbacks of using pulsed xenon arc lamps in AFS.
Main Methods:
- An EIMAC xenon arc continuum source was operated in both pulsed and continuous-wave modes.
- Performance was assessed for potential use as an excitation source in atomic-fluorescence spectrometry.
- Stability, background signal, and spectral characteristics were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Pulsed mode operation showed little to no improvement compared to continuous-wave mode.
- The pulsed arc lamp was unstable, necessitating a residual d.c. current to sustain the arc.
- A large background signal resulted from source radiation scattering in the flame, with significant spectral peaks observed.
Conclusions:
- The evaluated xenon arc continuum source in pulsed mode is not advantageous for atomic-fluorescence spectrometry.
- Instability and significant background signal due to scattering limit its practical application.
- Further research into alternative pulsed sources or optimized operating conditions may be necessary.
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