ICP-MS is a sophisticated analytical technique used to detect and measure tiny amounts of metals and other elements in different samples. It works by ionizing the sample using a plasma torch and then analyzing the ions based on their mass-to-charge ratio. This allows for sensitive and precise measurements, even at low concentrations.
How Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry Works
The first step is to introduce the sample to a plasma torch, ionizing it at extremely high temperatures (about 10,000 K). Argon gas and an electric coil generate the plasma using a high-frequency electromagnetic field. This process converts the sample into charged particles (ions) and then directs the ions into the mass spectrometer.
The mass spectrometer separates these ions based on their mass-to-charge ratio (m/z). This sorting allows the detector to measure the amount of each element in the sample accurately. The data collected can then determine the presence and concentration of restricted substances.
Applications of ICP-MS in Environmental Compliance
ICP-MS is particularly valuable in the context of environmental compliance and regulations, especially for detecting restricted substances in consumer products like electronics. Like XRF, its strength lies in detecting individual elements but is less effective at quantifying compounds. Here are some applications:
EU RoHS – inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry excels at detecting heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, mercury, and hexavalent chromium. Since the phthalates are organic compounds, an analytical technique such as GC-MS would be more suitable.
