Non-linear spectral interferences in an inductively coupled plasma optimized for simultaneous multi-element analysis of plant and soil samples by atomic emission spectrometry

Summary The spectral interferences by Al, Ca, Fe, K, Mg and Na in the direct simultaneous determination of As, Cd, Co, Cu, Hg, Pb and Se in plant and soil samples by ICP-AES are investigated, and a non-linear relationship between the apparent analyte concentration for As, Cd, Co, Hg and Se is observed. A correction method for non-linear spectral interferences is discussed and non-linear spectral correction coefficients are calculated.