Nu Instruments | Minimising Sample Consumption in Single Shot Laser Ablation ICP-MS
This application note demonstrates single shot laser ablation workflows for isotope ratio analysis using Attom ES. It highlights reduced sample consumption, fast peak switching, automated data processing and accurate isotope ratio measurements.
Laser ablation ICP-MS is valuable for high spatial resolution analysis, especially where precise isotope ratios are needed from very small sample areas. The Attom ES was evaluated for single shot laser ablation measurements using fast settling times and sub-millisecond dwell times.
The method was applied to Pb/U isotope ratios in zircon and U-series isotope ratios in small particles. Peak integration was used to compensate for transient signal skew and support accurate ratio calculations from single laser shots.
Nu Quant NICE scripts automated the processing of single shot data, reducing manual spreadsheet work. The note shows that accurate isotope ratios can be achieved while consuming far less sample material than conventional multi-second ablation methods.
Key Takeaways:
- Single shot laser ablation reduces sample consumption for isotope ratio analysis.
- Fast settling times and short dwells help minimise signal skew.
- Nu Quant NICE automates peak integration and isotope ratio calculations.
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