A new peak recognition algorithm for detection of ultra-small nano-particles by single particle ICP-MS using rapid time resolved data acquisition on a sector-field mass spectrometer

摘要: The applicability of single particle inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (spICPMS) is currently limited to particles larger than ∼10 nm in diameter. In this work, the size detection limit (DLs) was improved by resolving ion bursts originating from silver or gold nanoparticles (AgNPs AuNPs) using real time data acquisition with 0.1 ms resolution. Such here called Fast Acquisition Speed Technique (FAST). analytical capabilities FAST were evaluated on a sector field instrument high transmission efficiency (ITE). An algorithm for distinguishing events dissolved and/or background signals developed, and it possible detect 6.4 AuNPs that delivered only 2 ions detector. influence dwell investigated concluded minimum DLs achieved times close duration ∼0.2 ms. Attempts further improve should therefore be focused increasing ITE spectrometer.