TY  - CONF
A1  - Abad Andrade, Carlos Enrique
T1  - Versatility of nitrogen microwave-induced plasma mass spectrometry in elemental and isotopic analysis
N2  - The introduction of Nitrogen-based Microwave Inductively Coupled Atmospheric-Pressure Plasma Mass Spectrometry (MICAP-MS) addresses the necessity for a plasma source that matches the capabilities of traditional argon-based Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) while exploiting the availability and cost-effectiveness of nitrogen gas. MICAP-MS uses nitrogen plasma, offering significant advantages such as reduced operational costs and eliminating specific isobaric interferences common in argon plasma systems [1]. This presentation explores the principles of MICAP-MS, highlighting its similarities to conventional ICP-MS in terms of analytical performance while emphasizing unique benefits like eliminating interferences from argon-based polyatomic species. MICAP-MS exhibits robust performance using nitrogen gas of varying purities—including ultra-high purity and industrial-grade nitrogen—without compromising analytical results [2].

We have applied MICAP-MS for multielement analysis in soil samples, serving as a proof of concept for environmental monitoring applications. The technique achieved figures of merit comparable to traditional ICP-MS, even when analyzing real-world samples with complex matrices [2]. MICAP-MS demonstrated high tolerance to high-concentration matrices, maintaining accuracy and precision without extensive sample preparation or matrix separation [3]. In clinical diagnostics, MICAP-MS was employed for the precise and traceable quantification of calcium, iron, and selenium in human serum using isotope dilution analysis [4]. These elements often face interferences in argon-based ICP-MS due to argon-associated isobaric interferences (40Ca+, 56Fe+, and 80Se+); however, MICAP-MS effectively overcomes these challenges, providing traceable and accurate determinations.

The stability of the microwave plasma in MICAP-MS facilitates precise isotopic analysis. This capability investigated age-induced lithium isotope fractionation in lithium-ion batteries, offering critical insights into battery aging mechanisms and performance degradation [5]. MICAP-MS is a versatile analytical tool that combines the operational benefits of nitrogen plasma with the strengths of traditional ICP-MS. Its ability to handle complex matrices, reduce interferences, and perform precise elemental and isotopic analyses across various applications makes it a valuable instrument.
T2  - European Winter Conference on Plasma Spectrochemistry
CY  - Berlin, Germany
DA  - 02.03.2025
KW  - MICAP-MS
KW  - Nitrogen plasma
KW  - Isotope dilution analysis
KW  - Matrix tolerance
KW  - Argon interference elimination
KW  - Trace analysis
PY  - 2025
AN  - OPUS4-63485
LA  - eng
AD  - Bundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und -pruefung (BAM), Berlin, Germany
ER  -