Inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry is an analytical technique used for the determination of approximately 70 elements in a variety of matrices. It is a type of emission spectroscopy that uses plasma source to dissociate the sample into its constituent atoms or ions, exciting them to a higher energy level. They return to their ground state by emitting photons of a characteristic wavelength depending on the element present. This light is recorded by an optical spectrometer. When calibrated against standards the technique provides a quantitative analysis of the original sample. All kinds of dissolved samples can be analyzed, varying from solutions containing high salt concentrations to diluted acids. A typical ICP-AES/ICP-OES consists of a sample introduction system, ICP torch and gas supply, Radio Frequency generator (RF), spectrometer, detector and data collection unit.

Applications

• Environment: Drinking, ground and surface water and in waste water analysis, Soil and sediment analysis
• Samples of biological origin: Plant and animal samples, Clinical and forensic materials, Food and animal feeds.
• Geological materials: Metallurgy: Steel and iron matrices, nonferrous metals, noble metals and special alloys.
• Material sciences: Semiconductors and ceramics.
• Industrial applications: Chemicals and fertilizers, galvanizing/electroplating baths, brines and salts, cement, gypsum, calcium matrix and glass.