Parameter optimization of an improved two-jet plasmatron for analyzing powder samples

The effect of operation parameters on an analytical signal in the jet of an improved two-jet plasmatron was studied. It was found that the analysis can be performed at lower current intensities and smaller gas flow rates on approaching the plasma-jet merging zone and choosing an analytical zone 3 to 2 mm ahead the site of plasma-jet merging. The detection limits of many elements in the direct analysis of graphite powders were 10^?8–10^?6 wt % against 10^?6–10^?4 on a previous plasmatron.