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High-Sensitivity and High-Speed Single-Particle Inductively Coupled Plasma Spectrometry with the Conical Torch
Sina Alavi1, Xiaoman Guo1, Seyyed Morteza Javid1
1Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto M5S 3G8, Canada.
Analytical Chemistry
|August 15, 2020
Summary
A new conical inductively coupled plasma (ICP) torch significantly enhances single-particle analysis sensitivity and precision. This advancement allows for faster, more accurate elemental detection in particles, improving ICP-based analytical capabilities.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Spectroscopy
- Materials Science
Background:
- Single-particle analysis using inductively coupled plasma (ICP) techniques is crucial for elemental characterization.
- Conventional ICP torches face limitations in sensitivity, precision, and throughput for single-particle analysis.
- Advancements in plasma torch design are needed to overcome these limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the performance of a novel conical ICP torch for single-particle analysis.
- To compare the sensitivity, precision, and throughput of the conical torch against a conventional Fassel torch.
- To investigate the underlying plasma characteristics contributing to improved performance.
Main Methods:
- Monodisperse desolvated particles of eight elements were introduced into the conical ICP torch.
- Optical spectrometry was used to investigate signal peak characteristics, precision, and atomization/ionization kinetics.
- A specialized particle introduction system ensured consistent particle delivery to the plasma.
Main Results:
- The conical torch demonstrated 1.5-8 times higher peak intensity and 2-4 times higher peak area compared to the Fassel torch.
- Peak width was reduced by 2 times, and precision improved with lower relative standard deviations (RSD) for peak intensity (1.5x) and peak width (1.8x).
- Mass detection limits were similar or up to 8 times lower, with a 2-fold decrease in diameter detection limit.
Conclusions:
- The conical ICP torch offers significantly improved sensitivity, precision, and throughput for single-particle analysis.
- Enhanced electron density, excitation temperature, and robustness in the conical torch contribute to rapid particle processing and reduced diffusion.
- The conical torch enables high-sensitivity, high-precision single-particle analysis at rates of at least 2000 particles per second, opening new possibilities in ICP-based elemental analysis.
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