An interesting situation emerged on analysis of ICP-MS samples which had to be compared with gamma spectroscopy results. For other radionuclides activity concentrations, such as U-238 and Th-232 results, were comparable except those of K-40. The results obtained on ICP-MS were approximately 50x less than those from gamma for all samples. As a research, which method would be tangible to use to obtain results that are in agreement with gamma spec, provided that all analytical instruments are well calibrated with certified standards?
If you are using a typical Argon-based ICP-MS, even if the operating software permits you to measure isotopes of m/z = 40 (K, Ca and Ar), I think you will struggle to accurately quantify K-40 as it is going to be overwhelmed by the Ar-40 signal from the plasma.
I suspect you will have to use a different technique that doesn't use Argon plasma.
Background peaks for all elements on instruments are always considered and has been the same case here.
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