Quantitative analysis of powder samples using screen-printing techniques as sample preparation methods for LA-ICP-MS

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) is a direct solid sample analysis technique.
• Quantitative LA-ICP-MS is hindered by the need for matrix-matched standards.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a versatile sample preparation method for quantitative LA-ICP-MS.
• To overcome the limitation of matrix-matched standards in LA-ICP-MS analysis.

Main Methods:

• A novel screen-printing technique was developed to prepare film-like samples from powder.
• Sample powders are dispersed in liquid resin, spiked with internal standards, and homogenized.
• Internal standardization is achieved by controlling analyte concentration against an internal standard.

Main Results:

• Homogeneous samples were easily obtained due to the liquid nature of reagents.
• Accurate quantitative analysis was achieved without relying on matrix-matched standards.
• The method was validated by analyzing impurity elements in TiO2 powder.

Conclusions:

• The developed screen-printing method offers a flexible and versatile approach for quantitative LA-ICP-MS.
• This technique significantly broadens the applicability of LA-ICP-MS by eliminating the need for specific matrix-matched standards.
• Potential for analyzing diverse materials using this innovative sample preparation technique.