Hi,

I'm having a hard time finding enough literature to provide information on what I am seeing in my spectra.

I'm using multicomponent spectral fitting (matrix corrections) for the organic acid I introduce into the system (1% organic acid in milli-Q water). This corrects nicely for the background or interferences on the ICP-OES. Using a clean organic acid for the model.

However, how can I say for sure that it is directly related to the organic composition?

Using ChatGPT I found the following:

Can anyone confirm or deny this, and on what grounds?

Carbon-related spectral interferences in ICP-OES arise due to molecular band emissions (e.g., CN, CH) or altered plasma conditions caused by organic matrices. Molecular Bands emission lines are related to the formation of molecular species such as CH, CN or CO. These species emit broad molecular bands that can overlap with analyte lines, leading to interferences in spectral regions. Carbon Emission Lines are related to Carbon atoms and Carbon ions which produce their own emission lines when excited in the plasma. These lines can overlap with the analytical lines of elements being measured, causing direct spectral interference.

I hope to hear from you,