Analytical Characteristics of a Spark-Sampled/Pulsed Radio-Frequency Re-Excited Analytical Discharge

Abstract

A high-voltage analytical spark is used to “sample” a metallic electrode and to convert that sample into a desirable form (toroidally shaped post-atomic vapor). This sample is then inductively re-excited with a short burst of radio-frequency (200 MHz) energy. Emission resulting from this re-excitation process is simplified, is free from background continuum, and shows narrow linewidths, when compared with direct spark emission. Analytical working curves for lead and iron in copper-based alloys show good linearity and range. Detection limits of 10 ppm are also shown for several elements in metallic samples.