Evaluation of spectral interferences in the atomic emission determination of some rare-earth elements and yttrium in natural samples

Spectral interferences were quantitatively estimated using two characteristics: (1)Q ₁ (gl _a ) andQ _W (gDgl _a ) defined as the ratio of sensitivities of overlapping lines or their wings to the sensitivity of the line under investigationgl _a and (2)c _L , _I quantities defined as the contribution of foreign (interfering) lines to the real detection limit at the analytical line. With the use of an automated wave scanning and computer treatment of spectra, 20 analytical lines of medium and heavy lanthanides (from Eu to Lu) and Y and also overlapping lines of 29 interfering elements were examined. An arc two-jet plasmatron with an argon flow, predominantly giving a spark spectrum of rear-earth elements, was used as a source of excitation. The data obtained can be used in the atomic-emission analysis of natural samples for selecting preferential analytical lines.