Rapid and simultaneous multi-element analysis of atmospheric particulate matter using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry with laser ablation sample introduction

A precise and accurate method of analysis using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry combined with laser ablation for direct solid sample introduction was developed for the determination of Na, Al, K, Ca, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Ag, Cd, Sb, Ce, W and Pb in atmospheric participate matter. Analyte element calibration was performed easily using a standard filter sample prepared by dropping an aqueous standard solution on to the surface of the same type of membrane filter as used for collecting atmospheric particulate matter. The absolute limits of detection ranged from 1.2 × 10^-3 ng for Ce and W to 56.6 ng for Na. For replicate determinations of the analyte elements, the repeatabilities were within 10% (as RSD), except for Al (11%), Cu (18.5%) and Ag (16%). The method was successfully applied to the determination of trace elements in atmospheric particulate matter collected in Tokyo, Japan. The analytical results were in good agreement with those obtained by the commonly used method of instrumental neutron activation analysis.