Matrix effect studies in the inductively coupled plasma with monodisperse droplets. Part 1: The influence of matrix on the vertical analyte emission profile

The effects of different matrices on the analyte vertical emission profile in the inductively coupled plasma were evaluated with use of a monodisperse droplet sample introduction system in combination with a pneumatic nebulizer. The influence of matrix in the gas phase was separated from influences in the desolvation and volatilization steps. The results suggest that vertical shifts in the analyte emission profiles occur primarily during droplet desolvation and vaporization. The vertical shifts can be correlated to the size of the desolvated particles; larger particles produce emission profiles closer to the load coil, Possible effects of radiative heat transfer were also studied. Strongly absorbing species can increase the evaporation rate of the solvent and produce vertical shifts toward the load coil.