Quantitative analysis using LA-ICP-MS and powder samples dispersed in polyvinyl alcohol films

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Geochemistry

Background:

• Quantitative analysis using laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) typically requires matrix-matched standards, which are often unavailable for diverse sample types.
• The direct analysis of solid samples with LA-ICP-MS is powerful, but the lack of suitable standards limits its quantitative application, particularly for powders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel method for the quantitative analysis of powder samples using LA-ICP-MS.
• To overcome the limitation of requiring matrix-matched standards by creating easily tailorable standards.
• To demonstrate the sensitivity and accuracy of the developed method for elemental quantification in various ceramic powders.

Main Methods:

• Powder samples were dispersed in a hydrophilic polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) resin to form a paste.
• Screen-printing technique was employed to create uniform film samples from the PVA paste.
• A standard-addition method was utilized, involving analyte-spiked PVA films prepared with standard solutions for calibration.

Main Results:

• The developed method enables quantitative analysis of powder samples using LA-ICP-MS without the need for traditional matrix-matched standards.
• The hydrophilic nature of PVA allowed for a high ratio of analytes to resin, ensuring sufficient sensitivity (detection limits < 0.1 μg/g).
• Accurate quantification was achieved for elements in ceramic powders (SiC, ZrO2, TiO2) across a concentration range of five orders of magnitude ( < 1 μg/g to > 1 wt%).

Conclusions:

• The PVA paste and screen-printing method provide a versatile approach for preparing samples for LA-ICP-MS analysis.
• This technique facilitates the easy tailoring of reliable matrix-matched standards for individual samples, significantly broadening the applicability of quantitative LA-ICP-MS.
• The method holds significant potential for improving quantitative elemental analysis in diverse powdered materials across various scientific disciplines.