ICPOESmenetelmät

ICPOESmenetelmät refers to the methods and techniques used in Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES). ICP-OES is an analytical technique that determines the elemental composition of a sample. The process begins with introducing a liquid sample into a high-temperature plasma, typically generated by an inductively coupled radiofrequency field. This plasma, often argon gas heated to around 6,000 to 10,000 Kelvin, atomizes and excites the elements present in the sample. As the excited atoms and ions return to their ground state, they emit light at specific wavelengths, characteristic of each element. The intensity of this emitted light is proportional to the concentration of the element in the sample. ICP-OES instruments then use a spectrometer to separate and measure the intensity of this emitted light at different wavelengths. Various types of spectrometers are employed, including Czerny-Turner, Paschen-Runge, and echelle designs. The specific wavelength measured identifies the element, while the intensity quantifies its amount. Calibration with known standards is crucial for accurate quantitative analysis. Sample introduction methods can vary, including pneumatic nebulizers, ultrasonic nebulizers, and direct sample insertion devices, each suited for different sample types and sensitivities. The choice of operating parameters for the plasma, such as forward power, reflected power, and gas flows, also significantly influences the analytical performance of ICP-OESmenetelmät.