Solid sample analysis using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry

Abstract

Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) is a highly accepted, widely used method for the determination of major, minor and trace elements in solids, as well as isotope-ratio measurements. However, it suffers from non-stoichiometric effects occurring during sampling, aerosol transport, vaporization, atomization and ionization within the ICP, described as elemental fractionation. This matrix-dependent phenomenon has been the limitation for quantitative analysis without matrix-matched calibration standards. Significant insights into the processes responsible for elemental fractionation have been obtained and, with improved understanding of LA-ICP-MS, a variety of strategies for more precise, more accurate quantitative analyses have been developed. This review aims to summarize recent developments in LA-ICP-MS based on the fundamental understanding of the LA process and particle formation but also includes the importance of the ICP and its operating conditions. We discuss figures of merit and new trends in quantification in order to demonstrate the capabilities of this direct solid-sampling technique. We present a few selected applications to underline why LA is a fast-expanding analytical technique.