Atmospheric seal for glow discharge analytical instrument

摘要

This invention provides a gas atmosphere surrounding a seal between the face of a glow discharge lamp assembly and the sample surface to eliminate the possibility of the introduction of atmospheric gases into the glow discharge lamp. A groove concentric with the O-ring seal in the face of the glow discharge lamp is provided. This groove is supplied with gas slightly in excess of atmospheric pressure. This provides a gas blanket or jacket around the O-ring seal. Any leaks in the O-ring seal would draw the gas rather than atmospheric gases into the lamp. The incorporation of this modification is particularly important when a sample is being analyzed for elements which are also commonly present as atmospheric gases. The invention may be used on DC as well as RF glow discharge lamp assemblies.