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Discrete Entity Analysis via Microwave-Induced Nitrogen Plasma-Mass Spectrometry in Single-Event Mode
Ana Rua-Ibarz1, Flávio V Nakadi1, Eduardo Bolea-Fernandez1
1Department of Analytical Chemistry, Aragon Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza 50009, Spain.
Analytical Chemistry
|October 14, 2025
Summary
Single-event microwave-induced nitrogen plasma-mass spectrometry (MINP-MS) successfully analyzed nanoparticles, cells, and microplastics. This novel method offers ultra-trace element detection and accurate sizing, rivaling traditional techniques.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Materials Science
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Traditional inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) faces challenges with polyatomic interferences.
- Analysis of discrete entities like nanoparticles and microplastics requires sensitive and accurate quantification methods.
- Nitrogen (N2) plasma offers potential advantages over argon (Ar) plasma for certain elemental analyses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate single-event microwave-induced nitrogen plasma-mass spectrometry (MINP-MS) for analyzing discrete entities.
- To assess the capability of N2 plasma for ultra-trace element determination in nanoparticles and cells.
- To determine the suitability of MINP-MS for sizing microplastics.
Main Methods:
- Utilized single-event microwave-induced nitrogen plasma-mass spectrometry (MINP-MS).
- Analyzed iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe2O3 NPs), selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs), Se-enriched yeast cells, and microplastics (polystyrene and PTFE).
- Compared results with transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) for sizing.
Main Results:
- Achieved a limit of detection (LoD) of 8.6 ag for Fe, enabling ultra-trace element determination.
- Accurately characterized Fe2O3 NPs (20-70 nm) and SeNPs (150-250 nm), showing excellent agreement with TEM and DLS.
- Successfully analyzed microplastics and Se-enriched yeast cells, demonstrating the method's versatility.
Conclusions:
- Single-event MINP-MS is a viable technique for the analysis of discrete entities, including nanoparticles, cells, and microplastics.
- N2 plasma effectively minimizes interferences, enabling sensitive elemental analysis and accurate sizing.
- This instrumentation presents a promising alternative to ICP ionization sources for discrete entity analysis.
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