Determination of relative sensitivity factors of elements in a copper matrix by using microsecond-pulsed and continuous direct current glow discharge mass spectrometry

Copper matrix-matched calibration samples were prepared by doping high purity copper powders (99.999%, 500–600 μm) with multi-element standard solutions with a total of 72 elements, and then the relative sensitivity factors (RSFs) of the 72 elements in both microsecond-pulsed and continuous direct current (dc) modes were determined by using Element GD type glow discharge mass spectrometry (GD-MS). The ability of pulsed and continuous dc-GD-MS to quantitatively determine trace elements in copper was demonstrated after calibration using the RSFs. The results showed that the uncertainty level of GD-MS analysis after calibration was comparable with that of ICP-MS and ICP-OES analysis. In order to standardize calibration sample preparation procedures, the doping concentration, pressed powder tablet compactness and tablet homogeneity were optimized. Good recovery (85% to 115%) was obtained. Good pressed powder tablet compactness and tablet homogeneity were obtained, which were expressed as relative standard deviations (