In Inductively-Coupled Plasma – Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), an inductively coupled plasma (argon gas ionised by an intense electromagnetic field) is used to create ions which are then separated on a charge-to-mass basis and quantified by a mass spectrometer, to as low as ppq detection limits. The intensity of the ion is proportional to the concentration of the sample. Compared to ICP-OES, it gives much lower detection limits.

This course engenders a holistic approach to ICP-MS from the initial choice of analytical set-up through to designing a robust methodology including sample preparation and sample introduction and finishing with calibration. Ten real-world case studies cover elemental analysis in pharmaceuticals, drinking water, soils, motor oil, occupational hygiene, forensics, metal speciation, isotope ratios and food / drink authentication.