Matrix effects in inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry: A review

Fundamental research on non-spectroscopic interferences, also known as matrix effects, in inductively coupled plasma (ICP) mass spectrometry with sample introduction using nebulization is critically and exclusively examined in this review, starting with fundamental processes that may be a source of matrix effects during sample introduction, ion generation in the ICP, ion extraction through the interface, and ion transport through the ion optics to the detector. Various methods for attenuating matrix effects are then reviewed and illustrated with some examples. Instead of exhaustively reviewing the literature, representative references are used to comprehensively describe the main issues, several of which are also common to ICP optical emission spectrometry.

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► ICPMS applications often require a combination of methods to cope with matrix effects.
► Matrix, analyte, concentrations and ICPMS operating conditions affect matrix effects.
► Because of this complexity, there is no single way of eliminating matrix effects.
► The sample introduction system can be a significant source of matrix effects.
► Employing robust plasma conditions is the simplest way of reducing matrix effects.