ICP-MS and ICP-AES/ICP-OES techniques

19 | 07 | 2023

ICP-MS and ICP-AES/ICP-OES techniques

Technical Analysis

ICP-MS and ICP-AES/ICP-OES techniques 

ICP-MS and ICP-AES/ICP-OES are analytical techniques used in analytical chemistry for the quantitative determination of elements in samples.

ICP-MS stands for "inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry". This technique involves vaporising the sample in a high-temperature plasma, followed by ionisation of the atoms to form ions. The ions formed are then separated and quantified using mass spectrometry. ICP-MS is extremely sensitive and can detect concentrations of less than one part per trillion for most elements. It is commonly used for the analysis of heavy metals and isotopes.

ICP-AES/ICP-OES stands for "inductively coupled plasma atomic or optical emission spectrometry". This technique also involves vaporising the sample in a high-temperature plasma, but the ions formed are then excited to produce a light emission. The elements present in the sample are then identified and quantified on the basis of the characteristics of the light emitted. ICP-AES and ICP-OES are also very sensitive and can detect very low concentrations. They are commonly used to analyse metals and trace elements.

ICP-MS and ICP-AES/ICP-OES techniques are used in many fields, including environmental analysis, food analysis, materials analysis and pharmaceutical analysis. The results obtained by these techniques are highly accurate and reliable, making them valuable tools for scientific research and quality control in many industrial sectors.


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