Glow discharge as an atomization and ionization device. Progress report, February 1-October 1, 1981

Technical Report · Thu Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1981

OSTI ID:5168567

Harrison, W W

The development of a coaxial cathode glow discharge ionization source which offers simultaneous atomic absorption analysis is a useful tool for investigating the sputtering phenomenon. It is clear from the atomic population profile that both the cathode and anode geometry play a significant part in the distribution of analyte atoms in the discharge. The cathode may probably be reduced in size without affecting the analyte atomic or ionic population in the ion sampling volume. From studies of discharge parameters, it is concluded that analyte ion intensities are generally proportional to the atomic populations of sputtered species within the vicinity of the ion sampling volume, as long as there is no constriction of ion movement through the exit orifice. Fundamental studies on chromium and niobium, two elements which form strong oxide bonds, have shown that the presence of water vapor in the discharge can seriously limit analytical sensitivity. The response of these elements to systematic variations in current, voltage, and pressure points to the necessary precautions in electrode design source configuration, and gas composition which must be taken to optimize experimental conditions.

• Research Organization: Virginia Univ., Charlottesville (USA). Dept. of Chemistry
• DOE Contract Number: AS05-80ER10635
• OSTI ID: 5168567
• Report Number(s): DOE/ER/10635-2; ON: DE82006840
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

640301* -- Atomic
Molecular & Chemical Physics-- Beams & their Reactions
71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS
GENERAL PHYSICS
ABSORPTION SPECTROSCOPY
CATHODES
CHROMIUM
ELECTRIC DISCHARGES
ELECTRODES
ELEMENTS
GLOW DISCHARGES
ION SOURCES
IONIZATION
MASS SPECTROMETERS
MEASURING INSTRUMENTS
METALS
NIOBIUM
PERFORMANCE
SPECTROMETERS
SPECTROSCOPY
SPUTTERING
TRANSITION ELEMENTS