Influence of the Generator Frequency on the Spectral Characteristics of Inductively Coupled Plasma

Abstract

Different high-frequency generators have been studied in the 5 to 56 MHz range in order to observe the influence of frequency on spectral characteristics of inductively coupled plasmas used in emission spectroscopy. Higher frequencies tended to yield decreased excitation temperatures and electron number densities and therefore decreased line and background continuum intensities. Signal-to-noise ratios were improved ranging from 1 to 8 MHz going from 27 to 56 MHz with similar improvements in detection limits. Precision, working curve linearity, chemical interferences, and the ability to atomize high salt concentration samples were unaffected by frequency.