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Updated: Jun 28, 2026

Quantitative Atomic-Site Analysis of Functional Dopants/Point Defects in Crystalline Materials by Electron-Channeling-Enhanced Microanalysis
Published on: May 10, 2021
Multielement continuum-source atomic-absorption spectrometry with an echelle-spectrometer/image-dissector system.
R Masters1, C Hsiech, H L Pardue
1Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, U.S.A.
This study details advancements in an echelle-spectrometer/image-dissector system for atomic-absorption spectrometry. Enhanced sensitivity and resolution were achieved, improving multielement determination capabilities.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Spectroscopy
Background:
- Continuum-source atomic-absorption spectrometry (CSAAS) is a key technique for elemental analysis.
- Previous echelle-spectrometer/image-dissector systems required further optimization for enhanced performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the continued development of an echelle-spectrometer/image-dissector system for CSAAS.
- To improve multielement determination capabilities through instrument modifications.
Main Methods:
- Modified the echelle grating to 20-groove/mm blazed at 76 degrees.
- Removed the magnetic shield from the image dissector.
- Evaluated spectral range (300-430 nm) and resolution (<0.005 nm at 400 nm).
Main Results:
- Achieved linear calibration curves up to an absorbance of 0.2.
- Demonstrated absorption sensitivities up to 4-fold better than the previous design.
- Identified detector limitations for electrothermal and flame atomizers.
Conclusions:
- The modified system offers improved sensitivity and resolution for atomic-absorption spectrometry.
- Current limitations restrict applications to sequential quantification.
- Further development is needed for simultaneous multielement qualification.
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