Fundamentals and Practical Aspects of Nonspectroscopic Interferences in Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Spectrometry

Abstract

Inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP/AES) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP/MS) are well‐established techniques for elemental analysis. However, matrix effects can be considered to be their main pitfall. Changes in the performance of the system induced by the main sample component (or matrix) are referred to as matrix effects . As a result, the concentration obtained does not correspond to the actual one. Therefore, this is a problem that should be overcome. To do so, matrix effects must be understood. A full comprehension of the interferences begins with an evaluation of the contribution of each part of a spectrometer to the overall effect. This is only accomplished by means in‐depth fundamental studies. For more than 40 years, basic research has allowed to reach quite a high knowledge of the phenomena responsible for matrix effects. A representative sample of these is given in the present article. Some of the results of these investigations have allowed for the design and application of methods to find solutions that are appropriate for more or less general applications. In general terms, it may be stated that matrix effects have still not been fully mastered and more research is needed in this field in order to extend the field of applicability of ICP/AES and ICP/MS. Besides, the methods for overcoming interferences cannot be applied universally and new methods must be developed.

Multivariate approaches applied to optimization of an ultrasound-assisted extraction procedure for determination of essential elements in guarana samples by ICP OES

“…These conditions were chosen as extractor medium for the proposed procedure. The use of diluted HNO 3 is desirable in analytical methods based on ICP-optical emission spectrometry because does not affect the sample introduction system of the spectrometer and can overcome non-spectral interferences caused by eventual transport effects (Stewart & Olesik, 1998;Todolí & Mermet, 2011). In addition, diluted solutions contribute to environmental-friendly methods, following Green Analytical Chemistry recommendations (Bizzi et al, 2017).…”

Rapid quantitative analysis of petroleum coke properties by laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy combined with random forest based on a variable selection strategy

“…9–12 Commonly used methods for elemental content detection include wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (WD-XRF), atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), inductively coupled plasma techniques (ICP-MS, ICP-OES), etc. 13–16 Although the above methods have remarkable detection sensitivity and accuracy, almost all of them target a single analytical index and involve complicated, time-consuming, and laborious sample preparation. Therefore, a rapid, simple pretreatment process and multi-element simultaneous detection method for petroleum coke analysis is required.…”