Atomic Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES)

Inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) is an analytical technique that allows the quantification of elements up to the trace level in samples in solution. The sample to be analyzed is nebulized and conducted to an argon plasma, where desolvation, vaporization, atomization and ionization of the elements take place. The atoms and ions reach an excited state by the high thermal energy supplied by the plasma and during the relaxation process electromagnetic radiation is emitted with wavelengths characteristic of each element. The intensity of the different emission lines is proportional to the concentration of the elements, which can be quantified by using appropriate calibration curves. This technique has high detection limits (in the ppb range, μg / L), good reliability, high throughput and multi-elemental capacity, although in some cases spectral interferences can occur due to a high number of emission lines.

Solid samples (digestion will be carried out by the service) or liquid samples in slightly acidic aqueous solution can be supplied. Samples in HF medium are not allowed. Liquid samples must not present precipitates or colloids in suspension and must have a minimum volume of 10 ml. The samples will be delivered to the technician in charge of the service, together with the duly completed analysis request that is available on the ICMS website.

Available Equipment

• iCAP 7200 ICP-OES Duo (ThermoFisher Scientific)
• Microwave Digestion System ETHOS EASY (Milestone)