Atomic spectroscopy utilizes the electromagnetic radiation or mass spectrum of a sample to analyze its elemental composition. Each element has a characteristic wavelength of energy absorption or emission, enabling identification and quantification of elements.

Analytical methods based on atomic spectroscopy find extensive application in various fields, including environmental chemistry, geology, soil science, mining, metallurgy, food sciences, and medicine.

ATOMIC ABSORPTION SPECTROSCOPY (AAS)

Atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) operates by quantifying the UV/visible light energy absorbed by an element. The absorbed light’s wavelength matches the energy required to elevate the element’s electrons from the ground state to a higher energy level. The energy absorbed during this excitation is directly proportional to the element’s concentration in the sample.

Flame atomic absorption spectroscopy (FAA)

Flame atomic absorption spectroscopy (FAA) employs a flame to vaporize and thermally atomize a liquid sample. During this process, a fine aerosol of the sample solution is created by aspirating and spraying it into a chamber along with fuel and oxidant gases. The mixture is then transported to the burner head, where combustion and sample atomization take place.

Graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy (GFAA)

Graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy (GFAA) represents the most sophisticated and sensitive method for analyzing atomic absorption. By employing a graphite furnace atomizer, the atoms remain in the optical path for a slightly longer duration than in flame atomization, leading to enhanced sensitivity and lower detection limits, typically in the parts per billion (ppb) range.

INDUCTIVELY COUPLED PLASMA OPTICAL EMISSION SPECTROSCOPY (ICP-OES)

Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) quantifies the light emitted when excited electrons of an element return to their stable ground state. To achieve this, the sample is introduced into an argon plasma, and the high temperature excites the atom’s electrons to higher energy levels. The element is identified by the specific wavelength of the emitted light as its electrons return to the ground state. The intensity of the emitted light is directly related to the element’s concentration in the sample.

INDUCTIVELY COUPLED PLASMA-MASS SPECTROMETRY (ICP-MS)

Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) is a highly sensitive mass spectrometry technique utilized to quantify diverse metals and non-metals at concentrations below 1 part per trillion (ppt). ICP-MS achieves element analysis by separating them in a magnetic field based on their mass-to-charge (m/z) ratio.

X-RAY FLUORESCENCE (XRF) SPECTROMETRY

X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry identifies elemental composition through the measurement of X-rays’ wavelength and intensity emitted by energized atoms in a sample. In this technique, a beam of short-wavelength X-rays impacts the sample, causing innermost shell electrons of the atoms to be dislodged, resulting in a vacant site or “hole.” As a consequence, the atom rearranges its electronic arrangement, with an electron from a higher energy shell moving to occupy the newly created vacancy, emitting characteristic X-ray light in the process. The emitted X-rays are then detected and utilized for sample identification and quantification.