ICPMS is it hugely different to the other MS applications?

[seamoro]

Just wondering is ICPMS hugely different to other MS applications like LCMS...GCMS.? i know there are the obvious differences....but is the MS essentially the same?...like troubleshooting...interpretation...software. if somebody using GCMS and LCMS used ICPMS for first time, would they pick it up easily

[tlahren]

Yeah, I did. If you understand the fundamental workings of the ICP (i.e., how the atomization process works in theory) that really helps with the troubleshooting aspect. In the ICP everything in front of the MS can cause variations in MS performance so you have to understand each part from the sample delivery pump (usually peristaltic or HPLC in my case) to the nebulizer, spray chamber and torch. Also the skimmer cones can play a huge role in sensitivity and reproducibility. There is a lot going on but don't let it intimidate you. If you are proficient with both GCMS and LCMS I am sure you'll do fine on the ICPMS.

Keep in mind you are now working on the atomic level so you will have other factors causing interferences and sensitivity losses vs. at the molecular level.

Are you connecting an LC to the front end is it just standard ICPMS for total element analysis?

[MaryCarson]

The ICP folks have their forum, too. This may help:
https://listserv.syr.edu/scripts/wa.exe?A0=PLASMACHEM-L