Apparatus and methods for optical emission spectroscopy

摘要

A spark generator suitable for use in an optical emission spectrometer, and capable of generating a spark in a spark gap formed between an electrode and a sample to be analyzed, comprises a generator for generating a current of programmable amplitude in the spark gap in each of a series of discrete time intervals. The spark generator according to the invention is advantageous when compared with conventional spark generators in that it enables a higher degree of choice and control in the form of the spark. In particular, it enables the amplitudes of various portions of the spark to be independently varied, thus permitting the shape of the spark to be tailored to the particular analysis being performed. Also described are methods of optical emission spectroscopy which make use of the advantageous properties of the spark generator.