Emission Spectrometric Analysis of Fresh Waters with U-Shaped D.C. Arc with Aerosol Supply

Abstract

Abstract The application of a U-shaped d.c. arc with aerosol supply for analysis of fresh waters has been described. Limits of detection obtained with d.c. plasma compare well with those reported for ICP. A number of spectral lines and molecular bands were examined and the most suitable are selected to ensure the best limits of detection or wide dynamic ranges. Limits of detection in ng ml−1, given in the parenthesis, following the element symbol, are: Al(0.9), B(0.6), Ba(0.2), Be(0.15), Ca(0.05), Cd(3.5), Co(1.1), Cr(0.2), Fe(2.4), Ga(0.5), Hg(9.0), K(0.3), Li(0.008), Mg(0.4), Mn(0.3), Mo(0.7), Na(0.04), Ni(2.0), P(45), Pb(12), Si(9.0), Sr(0.04), Zn(1.3).