Multi-Element Analysis of Landfill Gas by ICP Emission and Mass Spectrometry

Methodology for the determination of trace elements in landfill gas by inductively coupled plasma emission and mass spectrometry is described. The approach is based on direct injection of landfill gas into the ICP using a simple gas sampling manifold. Chlorine and sulphur were quantified in landfill gas by ICP-OES while Sn, Mg, Cu and Zn were measured by ICP-MS. Due to the complex chemical composition of landfill gas, measurements in both emission and mass spectrometry were compromised by spectral interferences. The possibility for multi-element analysis of landfill gas samples based on the use of aqueous standard solutions was demonstrated.

Keywords:

• Landfill Gas
• Icp-MS
• Chlorine
• Sulphur
• Trace Metals