Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry – ICP-MS

In ICP-MS, an inductively coupled plasma (ICP) uses argon gas plasma to decompose the sample into its constituent atoms or singly-charged ions.

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What is Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)

Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) is a highly sensitive elemental analysis technique that determines trace (ppb and ppt) and major concentrations of the sample elements. While it is used to determine trace multi-elemental and isotopic concentrations in liquid, solid, and gaseous samples, it is most frequently used for total quantification of trace metal analysis in liquid samples. It is a high-resolution technique for the quantitative analysis and speciation studies of materials, from superalloys to high-purity materials in a wide range of industries from semiconductors, geology, pharmaceuticals, aerospace, oil & gas, food, and agriculture.

In ICP-MS, an inductively coupled plasma (ICP) uses argon gas plasma to decompose the sample into its constituent atoms or singly-charged ions. These ions are then directed to the mass spectrometer (MS), where they are separated based on the ion’s mass to charge ratio (m/z), and each mass range is filtered sequentially. The electron multiplier detects the ions, and mass spectra are displayed. The concentration of the elements is determined by comparing the intensity of the ion signal with the standards.

Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) Common Uses

Measurement of trace elements in the biological samples
Determination of toxic elements in the food samples
Monitoring of heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, mercury, and chromium in pharmaceutical products
Maximizing wafer production by ultralow detection of elemental impurities in chemicals and materials
Analysis of halogenated volatile organic compounds released in seawater samples
Quantification of multiple elements present in pesticide mixture

Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) Advantages

Short analysis time
Very low detection limit (0.0005-1.0ppb)
Dynamic measuring range of over several orders of magnitude
Able to measure multiple elements (up to 70) in a single analysis
Able to detect the composition of the isotopes in complex geological and environmental samples
Polyatomic isobaric interference signals can be eliminated using pressurized collision cells and reaction chambers
Able to act as a selective detector in hyphenated techniques

Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) Limitations

Multiple high-purity gases are required for the analysis
High operating and maintenance cost of the equipment
High purity grade reagents must be used
Formation of polyatomic interferences through interactions of the carrier gas, entrained atmospheric gases, and sample components