Abstract
The use of a Thermospray (TSP) in flame atomic absorption (FAA) increases sensitivity. Experimental data showed that a 75 μm orifice and 0.05 cm 1D capillary produced a sensitivity increase of about 104 compared to commercial flame atomizer. The signal was independent of power input over a considerable power range.
Based on this data a TSP nebulizer was built and used for interfacing HPLC and FAA. The instrument was used for cadmium speciation studies on urine. The presence of numerous cadmium compounds was revealed.
With further modification on TSP construction design, even higher analytical sensitivity for ultra trace metal analysis and better compatibility for interfacing HPLC with MS, ICP-MS, FAAS, and ICP-AES can be expected.