[Study of Ultrasonic Nebulizer Assisted Spark Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy as a Metal Elements Analysis Method for...

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Atomic Spectroscopy
• Plasma Physics

Background:

• Developing sensitive and cost-effective methods for elemental analysis in aqueous samples is crucial.
• Traditional methods may lack the required sensitivity or incur high costs.
• Spark Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (SIBS) shows promise but requires sample introduction optimization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a novel ultrasonic nebulizer assisted spark induced breakdown spectroscopy (UN-SIBS) system.
• To analyze metal elements in aqueous samples with high sensitivity and low cost.
• To investigate the plasma characteristics and elemental detection capabilities of the UN-SIBS system.

Main Methods:

• An ultrasonic nebulizer was used to generate fine droplets from bulk liquid samples.
• A high-tension coil and electrodes were employed to induce plasma for spectral emission.
• Emission spectra were collected and analyzed for elemental identification and quantification.
• Electron density and temperature were calculated to characterize plasma properties.

Main Results:

• The UN-SIBS system successfully analyzed metal elements in aqueous samples.
• A clear relationship was established between lead concentration and spectral peak intensity.
• Lead at 2.07 parts per trillion (ppt) was detected, surpassing previously reported limits of detection (LOD).
• The analysis of calcium, a low-activity metal, was also demonstrated.

Conclusions:

• The UN-SIBS system provides a highly sensitive and cost-effective approach for aqueous metal analysis.
• The method demonstrates superior performance in detecting heavy metals like lead.
• Further investigation into the underlying mechanisms can optimize this promising analytical technique.