Applications of hydrogen as a collision and reaction cell gas for enhanced measurement capability applied to low level stable and radioactive isotope detection using ICP-MS/MS

Abstract

Tandem inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS/MS) with collision/reaction cell capability can achieve highly effective separation of spectral interferences. This improves confidence in measurement, reduces the detection limits achievable and expands the number of isotopes measurable in a range of industries, including semi-conductor, pharmaceutical, environmental, food and nuclear. Amongst the range of cell gases tested, hydrogen (H₂) has proven to be an effective cell gas, either used alone or in combination with other gases. This study demonstrates the benefits of using H₂ in combination with ICP-MS/MS for improved detection of stable and radioactive pollutants of interest to a number of technical disciplines. This is presented through several case studies considering stable (³⁵Cl, ⁴⁰Ca, ⁵⁶Fe, Ni isotopes) and radioactive (³⁶Cl, ⁴¹Ca, ⁶³Ni and ⁹³Mo) isotopes in stable element standards and sample matrices including air quality filters and aqueous nuclear decommissioning waste.