Introduction
Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) is a robust analytical technique capable of handling a wide variety of sample matrices. However, volatile organic solvents can present unique challenges. After nebulization, the solvent rapidly evaporates in the spray chamber, generating additional vapor that is carried into the plasma. This increase in gas load can cause the plasma to rise within the load coil and move outside the RF field, potentially leading to plasma instability or extinguishment.
Organic solvents can also introduce carbon into the system. As carbon accumulates, it may deposit on the injector tip, gradually affecting signal stability and, over time, contributing to plasma shutdown. Managing these effects is essential to maintaining reliable performance and consistent analytical results when working with organic solvent matrices.
The Avio® 3000 ICP-OES, thanks to the combination of HeliPlate™ plasma technology and programmable oxygen addition, is the ideal instrument for the analysis of impurities in volatile organic solvents.
Download this technical note to learn about the unique capabilities of the Avio 3000 ICP-OES for this application.