[Enhancement effect of laser-processed aqueous solution on ICP source radiation]

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Spectroscopy
• Materials Science

Context:

• Inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) is a key technique for trace heavy metal detection.
• Enhancing spectral line intensity and signal-to-background ratio is crucial for improving detection limits.
• Modifying the physical properties of aqueous solutions can influence ICP-AES performance.

Purpose:

• To investigate the effect of near-infrared laser irradiation on the surface tension and viscosity of aqueous solutions.
• To evaluate the impact of laser-treated solutions on spectral line intensity and signal-to-background ratio in ICP-AES.
• To establish a simple method for improving the detection capabilities of ICP spectrometry.

Summary:

• Near-infrared laser treatment (976 nm) of aqueous solutions for 60 minutes at a power density of 0.3296 W/cm² reduced surface tension by 36.73% and viscosity by 9.73%.
• Introducing laser-treated solutions into an ICP source significantly enhanced spectral line intensity for Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, and Pb by up to 73.52% and signal-to-background ratios by up to 76.03%.
• The physical properties of the treated solutions remained stable for at least 30 minutes.

Impact:

• The laser treatment method offers a simple and effective way to improve the detection capabilities of ICP spectrometry.
• This technique provides a foundation for reducing the analysis detection limits for trace heavy metal elements.
• Enhanced spectral performance allows for more sensitive and accurate quantification of heavy metals in various samples.