Analytical capabilities of the microwave-coupled hollow-cathode discharge in emission spectroscopy

The intensity of spectra emitted by hollow copper cathodes with and without the superposition of 2450-MHz microwaves was studied under different operating conditions with argon as the filler gas. The hollow-cathode discharge was operated at 25–200 mA, with argon pressures ranging from 166 to 690 Pa. The intensities of the copper spectral lines are usually higher in the presence of microwaves, whereas the argon lines are weaker. The differences in the copper spectral lines with and without microwaves increase with increasing pressure of the filler gas and decreasing current. Analogous conclusions were reached for aqueous solutions of gold and silver ions placed in the cathode cavity and dried prior to discharge. The suitability of the method for improving the detection limits obtainable with the hollow-cathode discharge could thus be demonstrated.