Improvements in low-level radionuclide measurement capability through use of the Apex Q sample introduction system combined with ICP-MS/MS†

Abstract

Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) is increasingly used for rapid measurement of medium and long-lived radionuclides. Of the techniques available, tandem ICP-MS/MS is of growing interest owing to the enhanced online interference removal capabilities offered by an additional mass filter and a collision-reaction cell. This can reduce or remove the need for offline chemical separation, further reducing the procedural time. This online interference removal approach can reduce analyte sensitivity, which is an issue for trace-level measurements, particularly for relatively short-lived radionuclides. To help address this, this study investigates the use of desolvating sample introduction combined with ICP-MS/MS for enhanced measurement of multiple radionuclides. Results are shown for actinides, difficult-to-measure radionuclides of high priority for nuclear decommissioning, and shorter-lived radionuclides relevant to paleoclimate measurement. The improved sensitivity and additional interference removal achieved compared to the standard sample introduction system are demonstrated, with the results benefitting end users interested in improved waste characterisation, environmental radioactivity, nuclear forensics, and improved historical climate measurements.