An ultrafine particle generation (UFP) system has been developed for the direct analysis of solid metal samples by inductively coupled plasma (ICP) emission spectrometry. In this system fine particles are generated from solid samples with the use of a spark discharge and then swept into the ICP. The spark discharge conditions involving the electrode gap and the analytical performance of the ICP system are investigated. Analytical calibration curves are presented for steel samples. The NBS standard reference materials are analyzed by the proposed system.