C. Moor et al., Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry: a versatile tool for a variety of different tasks, FRESEN J AN, 366(2), 2000, pp. 159-164
In a laboratory that is working in many different fields, a systematic appr
oach is needed to decide efficiently how a given analytical task should be
handled. Four typical examples are presented to show how ICP-MS may be used
to solve client's problems. The examples are: the identification of lead p
rojectiles, the determination of total and leachable fractions of impuritie
s in a polymer (PVDF), used for manufacturing components of ultrapure water
distribution systems, the authentication of antique silver alloys, and the
determination of rare earth elements in geological materials. These exampl
es demonstrate not only typical challenges for the instruments and the anal
ysts handling them, but also ways to reach a satisfactory solution within a
reasonable amount of time.