Spark source mass spectrometry sample requirements

Applications Real applications of spark-source MS started on an empirical basis before fundamental insights were available. SSMS is now considered obsolete in many areas, but various unique applications for a variety of biological substances and metals are reported. Usually, each application requires specific sample preparation, sparking procedure and ion detection. SSMS is now used only in a few laboratories worldwide. Spark-source mass spectrometry is still attractive for certain applications (e.g. in the microelectronics industry). This is especially so when a multi-element survey analysis is required, for which the accuracy of the technique is sufficient (generally 15-30% with calibration or within an order of magnitude without). SSMS is considered to be a... 

Actinide metal samples are characterized by chemical and structure analysis. Multielement analysis by spark source mass spectrometry (SSMS) or inductively coupled argon plasma (ICAP) emission spectroscopy have lowered the detection limit for metallic impurities by 10 within the last two decades. The analysis of O, N, H by vacuum fusion requires large sample, but does not distinguish between bulk and surface of the material. Advanced techniques for surface analysis are being adapted for investigation of radioactive samples (Fig. 11) ... 

Spark Source Mass Spectrometry. Another method for trace analysis probably should be mentioned and that is spark source mass spectrometry. In this technique, the sample in the form of a solid serves as an electrode and vapors, formed by sparking, are atomized and ionized to metal ions which are separated by a mass spectrometer and measured. The equipment is expensive and good results require the attention of a skilled operator. Even under the best conditions order of magnitude agreement of results is about the best that can be achieved. 

The laser ion source can be used for trace analysis of all elements down to the sub-ppm range. The main advantage of this method compared with spark source mass spectrometry is that little sample preparation is required so that minute sample amounts which are difficult to handle can be investigated. A mixture of the sample with the conducting material, such as graphite is not necesseny, because the conductivity of the sample has no influence on the ion production. 

The most generally used destructive technique is ICP-AES, although it cannot effectively deal with the smallest casework samples. ICP-MS is a newer technique that has superseded spark source mass spectrometry. A limitation of NAA is the requirement of a nuclear reactor as an energy source so it is unlikely that this technique will become widely used. 

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