Solution-based determination of trace elements in biogenic carbonates: comparison of two sample introduction systems for use in flow injection ICPMS analysis

Abstract

The elemental composition of fish ear stones (otoliths) is used to inform upon environmental conditions, fish migrations, population structure, and nursery areas. We compared two nebuliser/spray chamber configurations for determining concentrations of Mg, Ca, Mn, Cu, Zn Rb, Sr, Ba, La and Pb in acidic otolith digests using flow injection ICPMS with: (1) cross-flow nebuliser/Scott spray chamber and (2) microconcentric nebuliser/Peltier-cooled cyclonic spray chamber. For most elements, both configurations had acceptable accuracy (within certified or indicative ranges) and precision (<10%) using FEBS-1 certified reference material (CRM), although more elements met these criteria using the second arrangement. Improved detection limits, accuracy, and precision were obtained using the micro-flow nebuliser and cooled spray chamber and this configuration also used 50% less sample, it is therefore the preferred arrangement for solution-based otolith analysis, particularly when sample size is limited.