Measurement and Results - Determining interelement correction (IEC) factors
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Accurately determining interelement corrections (IEC) is not necessarily simple or straightforward, as there are many factors to consider. Regardless of the approach followed, the emission spectra holds the key for making appropriate decisions. In other words, simply relying upon the final concentration data and not looking at the spectra can be problematic. The basic approach is to identify the major (high concentration) elements present in your samples, and then run single element solutions of these elements at varying concentrations. The resulting spectra will indicate where you should be concerned for the elements you wish to measure. For example, if you wish to measure Tl in a sample that contains significant amounts of Fe, then by running high Fe solutions you should be able to observe which Tl emission lines are likely to be adversely affected in the presence of Fe. The simple answer is that there is no ‘right’ or ‘correct’ approach, merely different ways of managing interferences that are likely to be dependent upon specific sample types, the requirements of different methods, and the capabilities of individual labs. |