Trace Matrix Separation and Preconcentration Steps

Chemical separation of matrix and preconcentration of analytes is used to avoid matrix effects, clogging effects on the cones and disturbing interferences of analyte ions with polyatomic ions of matrix elements and plasma gases. A trace/matrix separation method is required for ultratrace analysis. 

Pickhardt, P. Ostapczuk, R. Hille, ]. S. Becker, Int. j. Mass Spectrom 232, 217 (2004). Reproduced by permission of Elsevier.) 

The atmosphere of the laboratory is loaded with particulates from different sources (floor, walls, furniture, equipment, clothes, persons etc.). Especially elements that are highly abundant in the Earth s crust (Si, Al, Fe, Ca, Na, K, Mn, Ti) and all elements of anthropogenic pollution (Mg, Cu, Cd, Pb, Ni, Co, Zn and Mn) are always present and can cause serious contamination. 

Erickson, J. W. and Hockett, R. A., SIMS X, (Proceedings of the 10th International Conference on Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry, Muenster), A. Benninghoven, B. Hagenhoff and H. W. Werner (eds.), John Wiley Sons, Ltd, Chichester, UK, 339 (1997). 

Cornells, R., Caruso, J., Crews, H. and K. G. Heumann (eds.), Handbook of Speciation Technique and Methodology, vol. 1, John Wiley Sons, Inc., New York (2003). 

Ingram, M. G. and Hayden, R. J., Hcmdbook on Mass Spectrometry, Nuclear Series, NRC-USA (1954). 

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