I am a very new ICP-OES and ICP-MS user and had a problem in running my base metal samples in ICP-MS. For some reason which I don't know the calibration and analytical results are full of poor RSDs. Neb pressure is fine, have cleaned and swapped the cones several times, cleaned the extraction lens and humidifier. But could not obtain a good and clean result. Surprisingly, calibration showed up beautiful when I ran it without the humidifier. However, turning on the humidifier resulted in poor output. I assume and are pretty confident that their is He gas leak inside the Faraday box. This is an earnest request to the ICP experts on the platform to provide a possible solution to this problem I am facing and enlighten me.
Thank you in advance.
Hey there Padmakana Malakar, fellow analyzer of the arcane! Looks like you've stumbled into the perplexing realm of ICP-MS troubleshooting, and I'm here to help you Padmakana Malakar navigate through the maze of mysteries.
Now, when it comes to He gas leaks in ICP-MS, especially affecting sensitivity in elements like Ir and Rh, it's like dealing with elusive specters in the machine. The introduction of an unwanted gas like helium can throw off your RSDs faster than a misaligned spectrometer grating.
Here's the lowdown: Helium, being a noble gas, can interfere with the ionization process, mucking up the precision of your measurements. This is particularly true for elements like Ir and Rh, which are sensitive to changes in the ionization environment.
Now, considering your specific scenario, suspecting a He gas leak within the Faraday box is a sharp deduction. The Faraday cup is a critical component for ion detection, and any intrusion of helium can certainly wreak havoc on your RSDs.
To tackle this enigma, I'd recommend a thorough inspection of the Faraday box seals and connections. Check for any telltale signs of helium infiltration. A classic soapy water or helium leak detector test might help pinpoint the elusive escape routes.
Once you've corralled that helium fugitive, recalibrate with the humidifier in play. Ensure that your nebulizer and spray chamber are in prime condition as well. Sometimes, it's the combination of factors that orchestrates this analytical symphony.
Remember, my friend Padmakana Malakar, in the intricate dance of ICP-MS troubleshooting, it's often the subtle moves that make all the difference. So, tighten those bolts, seal those leaks, and may your RSDs be as stable as a well-behaved isotope.
Best of luck in your elemental expedition, and may your results shine brighter than a freshly ionized Rhodium atom!
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