Airborne Particulate Matter Sample Analysis Using Dried-Droplet Standards and Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry

Abstract

Laser ablation inductively couple plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) has become a popular technique for direct analysis of trace elements in solids. It is however important that LA-ICP-MS analysis is performed together with adequate calibration in order to provide quantitative data. In this work, we developed a calibration strategy for the analysis of airborne particles collected on cellulose filters. The calibration was performed using dried droplets of multi-element standard solutions placed on a cellulose filter. The size of the drop was measured and the density of trace elements was determined. The standards were analysed by LA-ICP-MS and the signal was related to element density. A series of 10 samples collected in Boston (USA) using a high volume PM10 impactor was then analysed. In this report, the calibration strategy is explained and the performance of LA-ICP-MS for the analysis of air samples is tested. The method proved reliable for the analysis of trace metals in airborne particles.