- Spark ionization
Spark ionization (also known as spark source ionization()) is a method used to produce gas phase
ion s from a solid sample. The prepared solid sample is vaporized and partially ionized by an intermittent discharge or spark. [ [http://www.iupac.org/goldbook/S05780.pdf IUPAC gold book definition] ] This technique is primarily used in the field ofmass spectrometry . When incorporated with a mass spectrometer the complete instrument is referred to as a spark ionization mass spectrometer or as a spark source mass spectrometer (SSMS). [cite journal | author = H. E. Beske, A. Hurrle and K. P. Jochum | title = Part I. Principles of spark source mass spectrometry (SSMS) | year = 1981 | journal =Fresenius' Journal of Analytical Chemistry | volume = 309 | issue = 4 | pages = 258–261 | doi = 10.1007/BF00488596]Typically samples are physically incorporated into two conductive electrodes (usually either carbon or silver) between which a high-voltage arc is produced, ionizing the material at the tips of the electrodes. If metals are being analyzed the sample may serve as an electrode. Mass analyzers are typically Mattauch-Herzog geometry, and use either photosensitive plates for ion detection or linear channeltron detector arrays.
References
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