Chem-Analyses Lab

ICP-MS INTERFERENCES

ICP-MS Interference Check and Isotope Selector

Choose the isotope to measure and check isobars, polyatomic ions and doubly charged ions at an m/z, based on the cell mode and the acids and main components of the sample.

Acids (% v/v of concentrated acid)
Matrix (mg/L: low <10, med. 10–1000, high ≥1000)
Other elements (Ti, Zr, Mo, Co, rare earths)
Element

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Reading the results and sources

Results are guidance that depends on the instrument and conditions. Interference strength varies widely with the instrument, plasma conditions and sample, so confirm the final choice by measurement, such as blanks, spike recovery and interference check solutions. The order is not a probability; it follows natural abundance and the interferences that remain under the chosen conditions.

“Major interference” means an overlap recorded in a source, or one from an element abundant in the matrix, remains in the chosen mode. “Caution” means an overlap with a small expected effect remains, or reaction data are missing. “No reaction data” does not mean the ion does not react.

Enter acids as the volume percent of the concentrated reagent acid (% v/v). Levels of Cl, S and P follow from the acids and can be changed in their menus. Main component levels are approximate concentrations in the measured solution; the size of the interference signal is not estimated. How readily ions react with H₂ and O₂ is a three-level summary of literature values measured on one instrument.

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Sources

Data reviewed on: