INDUCTIVELY COUPLED PLASMA.

Abstract

The Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) consists of a radio frequency generator operating at 27 MHz in the CB region but capable of delivering 1-3 kW of power. In much the same way as an induction furnace works, this power is transferred via an induction coil to the argon plasma. The sample to be analyzed is carried by a flow of argon through the center of the plasma where it experiences high temperatures. At these temperatures the sample is decomposed into individual atoms, which are often energized to form ions. The atoms and ions of each element emit characteristic wavelengths that are detected by a spectrometer. General applications have been in the analysis of aluminium, copper, and iron based alloys.