Spatial distribution of atoms in a dc glow discharge

Journal Article · Fri Sep 15 04:00:00 EDT 1995 · Analytical Chemistry (Washington)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1021/ac00114a011· OSTI ID:106759

Hoppstock, K; Harrison, W W ^[1]

---

1. Univ. of Florida, Gainesville, FL (United States)

An argon glow discharge acts as a reactive chemical cell involving sputtered analyte and argon atoms and ions. The spatial distribution of atoms from several samples has been monitored by an atomic absorption and emission arrangement simultaneously with mass spectrometric monitoring of the discharge. We have examined the effect of varying the sample to exit orifice distance on resultant atom profiles. Copper was studied by atomic absorption and iron by atomic emission, revealing complementary population shifts near the cathode surface. Argon metastable species were also monitored and correlated with the analyte response. Movement of the sample insertion probe by 90{degree} allowed a vertical perspective to be obtained for the discharge atom population. The effect of different discharge voltages was also examined to show sputter variations. Atom populations are defined by many factors, including sputter rate, diffusion rates, chemical reactivity, and discharge pressure. 15 refs., 8 figs.

• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE
• OSTI ID: 106759
• Journal Information: Analytical Chemistry (Washington), Journal Name: Analytical Chemistry (Washington) Journal Issue: 18 Vol. 67; ISSN ANCHAM; ISSN 0003-2700
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

40 CHEMISTRY
ABSORPTION SPECTRA
ABSORPTION SPECTROSCOPY
ARGON
ATOMS
COPPER
DESIGN
EMISSION SPECTRA
ENERGY LEVELS
GLOW DISCHARGES
IRON
MASS SPECTRA
MASS SPECTROMETERS