Inter-laboratory note. Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometric transient signal data acquisition and analyte concentration calculation

TLDR

LA‑ICP‑MS generates complex, time‑dependent signals that differ from steady‑state solution‑based signals, necessitating distinct acquisition and reduction strategies. The paper aims to detail data acquisition and reduction considerations for LA‑ICP‑MS analysis. The authors derive equations for calculating sample concentrations and limits of detection using time‑resolved data, calibrating sensitivity with reference materials and correcting for drift, matrix effects, and ablation variability via internal standards. The study proposes optimum data acquisition parameters for LA‑ICP‑MS.

Abstract

Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) produces complex, time-dependent signals. These require significantly different treatment both during data acquisition and reduction from the more steady-state signals produced by solution sample introduction. This paper discusses, in detail, data acquisition and reduction considerations in LA-ICP-MS analysis. Optimum data acquisition parameters are suggested. Equations are derived for the calculation of sample concentrations and LOD when time-resolved data acquisition is employed, sensitivity calibration is obtained from reference materials with known analyte concentrations and naturally occurring internal standards are used to correct for the multiplicative correction factors of drift, matrix effects and the amount of material ablated and transported to the ICP.