Universal calibration strategy for laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry based on the use of aqueous standards with modified absorption coefficients

This paper describes a calibration strategy for laser ablation ICP-MS based on the use of aqueous standards with modified absorption coefficients. The design of the ablation system and standard operating conditions are described. Initial studies were performed to characterise the behaviour of the calibration standards. Validation of the calibration procedure was performed using certified NIST reference materials. Future work will involve application of the calibration procedure to the analysis of biological materials.