Rotating disc nebulizer for inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry

A rotating disc nebulizer, of apparently unique design, has been developed for use in inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. The fundamental component is a rotating disc onto which the liquid or slurry sample is introduced. It is easy to construct, requires no additional spray chamber, is easy to operate effectively and is blockage free. Aerosols with mean droplet diameters approx 0.50 mu m are produced. Furthermore, the aerosols are homogeneous, with up to 80% of the droplets having diameters not > 0.6 mu m. Unfortunately, the aerosol transport efficiency is poor; this has a detrimental effect on the detection limits, sensitivity and stability. Principles of operation are described; aerosol production and analytical performance are evaluated. Detection limits for Ca, Cu, Cr, Al, Fe, and Pb were determined.