Atomic Spectrometry

*supervisors listed in brackets: AK = Assoc. Prof. Kaňa

Group focus:

In recent decades, the focus of trace element analysis methods has shifted from optical methods (atomic absorption and optical emission spectrometry) to mass spectrometry methods. In particular, to inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), which exhibits excellent operating characteristics suitable for routine applications. The detection limits for metals are often less than ng/L, and the dynamic range of the method exceeds ten concentration orders. The multi-elemental analysis is easy to perform.

The current equipment includes two inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometers. The older instrument Elan DRC-e by Perkin-Elmer has excellent performance characteristics and is equipped with a reaction cell to remove interfering polyatomic ions. This device is also used in the education of master's students. Newly, the laboratory is equipped with a high-end NexIon 350D by Perkin-Elmer. In addition to enhanced sensitivity, the instrument supports a new so-called universal cell technology. This technology eliminates spectral interference caused by polyatomic ions using ammonia as the reaction gas in both reaction cell and collision cell modes. Thanks to the ultra-fast signal measurement capability (minimum signal integration time of 0,01 ms), it is possible to analyse the size of individual nanoparticles.

The laboratory is further equipped with a liquid chromatograph (LC) by the Perkin-Elmer and Speed Wave- the microwave decomposition device for sample preparation.

Main fields of the interest :

Speciation analysis of trace elements in biotic matrices:

• The development of measurement methodologies using LC-ICP-MS on-line connection.
• The analyses of plant extracts, monitoring of variations in trace element speciation during vegetation (especially selenium).
• The speciation analysis of arsenic in food.

Application of ICP-MS method for determination of total element concentration:

• The development, validation, and estimation of uncertainties of determination of trace amounts of metals in biotic matrices by ICP-MS method.
• The application of the universal cell to remove interfering polyatomic ions.
• The research on the methodology of analysis of solutions with high organic content.
• The determination of trace elements in various matrices, e.g. animal and plant tissues, food and drink, pharmaceuticals, catalysts.

Characterisation of inorganic nanoparticles (NP) by single-particle (sp) ICP-MS

• Optimisation of measurement procedure
• Analysis of Ag NP in cosmetics
• Analysis of Ag NP in food (in cooperation with the Department of food analysis and nutrition)