What is ICP-MS?
Q: What is ICP-MS?
A: ICP-MS stands for Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry, which is a highly sensitive type of mass spectrometry.
Q: What can ICP-MS detect?
A: ICP-MS can detect a range of metals and several non-metals at concentrations below one part in 1012 (part per trillion).
Q: How does ICP-MS work?
A: ICP-MS works by hooking together an inductively coupled plasma as a method of producing ions (ionization) with a mass spectrometer as a method of separating and detecting the ions.
Q: What gas is commonly used as a carrier gas for the plasma in ICP-MS?
A: Argon is commonly used as a carrier gas to make the plasma in ICP-MS.
Q: What are the advantages of ICP-MS over atomic absorption techniques in trace elemental analysis?
A: The advantages of ICP-MS over atomic absorption techniques in trace elemental analysis include higher speed, precision and sensitivity.
Q: What are some limitations of ICP-MS?
A: Some limitations of ICP-MS include the method being prone to disruption by trace contaminants in labware and reagents used, and some analytes may not work with ICP-MS.
Q: What regulatory measures are in place for ICP-MS hardware?
A: ICP-MS hardware is a subject for special exporting regulations because it can help make atom bombs.
