Figure 8.17
Schematic diagram of a typical ICP-MS system. In some systems the multichannel
scaler may be omitted.The ability to provide data on the isotopic composition of analyte elements, is a further special feature
of the technique. This has already been exploited in a number of ways, including geological dating and
the identification of sources of environmental lead contamination and poisoning. The radiogeneric
source of lead means that different deposits may have different isotopic composition. In the UK this
feature has been used to
Figure 8.18
Cross-section of typical ICP ion source showing plasma
torch and ion extraction interface. Extraction and skimmer
sizes are slightly exaggerated for clarity.