Spatial profiling of analyte signal intensities in inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry

While much of the spatial profiling research in ICP-MS has been devoted to optimization of sampling position as a function of power and aerosol carrier gas flow rate, the evolution of knowledge of ICP-MS can be traced through the publications of these fundamental studies. Axial profiling, which provides information on the energy and time needed to form a given ion, is also useful when establishing the optimal operating conditions, and can be used to assess if a matrix induces earlier desolvation. However, radial profiling can provide valuable insight into the predominant ionization mechanism(s) in the ICP, which can, in turn, facilitate the selection of an efficient internal standard.