Alternate methods of sample introduction for plasma mass spectrometry

The most common method of sample introduction for plasma mass spectrometry is solution nebulization, which suffers from a number of short-comings; therefore, a great deal of effort has been placed on the investigation of other sample introduction methods. The common solution nebulization method and its disadvantages are discussed and, in some detail, several alternative methods of sample introduction are reviewed. The methods include electrothermal vaporization, hydride generation, liquid chromatography, gas chromatography, and supercritical fluid chromatography. Advantages and disadvantages of each of these methods will be discussed along with examples from work performed in our laboratory.