SBIR Phase I: Novel Sample Introduction Technique for ICP-MS/AES using a NanomiserTM Device for Spray Formation

This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will develop a method to lower the practical quantitation level of arsenic using a novel instrumental improvement to existing Inductively Coupled Plasma - Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) and Atomic Emission Spectrometry (AES) techniques. by replacing the standard sample introduction nebulizer and spray chamber used in ICP-MS and ICP-AES with the Nanomiser. device and thus lower the detection limit of arsenic and other elements. The Nanomiser enables very fine atomization of solvent/analyte mixtures with exceptional control over size, while maintaining a narrow size distribution. Results to date show that this breakthrough technology leads to the generation of a monodisperse aerosol with a mean diameter in the sub-micron to micron-range. Furthermore, this technology provides high residence time (due to low and independently controlled carrier gas velocity), which is, together with the small particle size, one of the main requirements for adequate thermal evaporation and dissociation of aerosol particles. The independence of gas flow and atomization will help to significantly increase the ionization of elements with higher first ionization energies, such as arsenic, by allowing for longer residence time in the plasma. The development of a reliable sample introduction technology can significantly improve the detection limits of conventional systems for atomic spectroscopy. Furthermore, the small size and compact design of the Nanomiser device will allow this technology to be easily retrofitted into existing AES and MS systems in collaboration with major instrument manufacturers.