Sodium Analysis by Spark Source Mass Spectrography

The feasibility of using spark source mass spectrography for a direct multielement analysis of solid sodium is demonstrated. Two different sparking configurations are employed, one with the capability of obtaining local analyses and the other capable of bulk analyses. Sample handling and preparation are minimal. Both argon and vacuum are used to protect the sodium prior to analysis. Liquid nitrogen cooling applied to the sodium while sparking inhibits melting and preferential volatilization. Detection limits below 100 ppb atomic are readily attained, and there is reasonable agreement with emission spectrographs results. The analysis of doped solutions further confirms the applicability of the technique.