High throughput sample introduction system for the analysis of drinking waters and wastewaters by ICP-MS

The application of a high-throughput introduction system to the analysis of natural and certified water samples is described. The introduction system consists of an autosampler, a switching valve, a high efficiency PFA-ST nebulizer and Peltier-cooled cyclonic spray chamber to perform analysis by direct nebulization. The potential benefits of this introduction system include increased throughput, reduced memory effects, increased stability, lower reagent consumption and less instrument maintenance. These parameters were evaluated as the system was applied to U.S. EPA Method 200.8. Particular attention was paid to the retention of Hg and long term stability during the analysis of samples containing high total dissolved salts. Analyses (according to Method 200.8 protocol) were accomplished in 90 s with significantly improved washout compared with that of conventional introduction, thereby doubling the throughput.