Laser-enhanced ionization with avalanche amplification: detection of cesium at fg/mL levels.
The avalanche amplification of the laser-enhanced ionization signal of Cs atoms in a flame has been studied. Ionization of Cs atoms, enhanced by two-step excitation, was detected in hydrogen and propane flames. By employing the effect of avalanche amplification of electrons, high signal-to-noise ratio (approximately 10(4)) was obtained for a 100 ppt Cs solution. The extrapolated limit of detection was 30 fg/mL (ppq).
Temirov
J P
JP
Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA.
Matveev
O I
OI
Smith
B W
BW
Winefordner
J D
JD
D002586:Cesium / Q000032:analysis*; D005410:Flame Ionization / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D007834:Lasers; D008832:Microchemistry / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods
D002586:Cesium