Furnace atomization plasma ionization mass spectrometry

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Atomic Spectroscopy
• Plasma Physics

Background:

• Elemental mass spectrometry requires efficient and robust ion sources.
• Existing ion sources may have limitations in ionizing elements with high ionization potentials or sample throughput.
• Atmospheric pressure plasmas offer potential advantages for direct sample introduction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize a new ion source, the Flow-Assisted Plasma Electrostatic Source (FAPES).
• To evaluate FAPES for elemental analysis using mass spectrometry.
• To assess the ionization capabilities and detection limits of the FAPES system.

Main Methods:

• A 40 MHz helium plasma was sustained at atmospheric pressure within an integrated contact cuvette.
• A differentially pumped interface with a sampling tube and skimmer cones was used for plasma sampling.
• Mass spectra were acquired for plasma species and analytes introduced in solution form.
• Lead was used as a test element to determine isotopic abundance and detection limits.

Main Results:

• The FAPES system demonstrated the ability to ionize elements with ionization potentials up to 10.45 eV (iodine).
• Mass spectra showed no significant carbonaceous or helium-based ions.
• An absolute limit of detection of 10 pg for lead was estimated.
• Ionization was dependent on the plasma, not the interface or absence of plasma.

Conclusions:

• FAPES is a viable ion source for elemental mass spectrometry.
• The source is capable of ionizing elements across a range of ionization potentials.
• Further development may enhance its application in elemental analysis.