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Design and evaluation of a new programmed-scan spectrometer for multielement determinations by atomic emission
K W Busch1, M A Busch, L D Benton
1Department of Chemistry, Baylor University, Waco, TX 76798, U.S.A.
Talanta
|January 1, 1990
Summary
A novel programmed-scan monochromator utilizes a multiple entrance-slit system for efficient elemental analysis. This innovative spectrometer achieves rapid data acquisition and reliable detection limits for various elements.
Area of Science:
- Spectroscopy
- Analytical Chemistry
- Optical Instrumentation
Background:
- Traditional monochromators can be slow and complex.
- Developing faster, more efficient spectroscopic instruments is crucial for elemental analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and test a new programmed-scan monochromator.
- To evaluate its performance in atomic emission measurements.
Main Methods:
- Assembly and testing of a multiple entrance-slit spectrometer (MESS).
- Utilized an optical multiplexer with fiber-optic light guides to illuminate up to eight entrance slits sequentially.
- Employed a single photomultiplier tube detector and microcomputer for data acquisition and control.
Main Results:
- Achieved data acquisition rates of approximately 4 seconds per element.
- Reported detection limits for lithium, sodium, calcium, barium, and strontium using an acetylene/air flame.
- Found that signal averaging and sampling rate had minimal impact on the signal-to-noise ratio.
Conclusions:
- The new programmed-scan monochromator offers efficient and rapid elemental analysis.
- The system demonstrates reliable performance with a simple, cost-effective detector setup.
- Further studies can explore optimization of signal processing for enhanced performance.
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