Atomic fluorescence and atomic emission measurements with an image dissector echelle spectrometer

This paper deals with the investigation of an image dissector echelle spectrometer as an analytical instrument for flame atomic fluorescence spectrometry and for flame atomic emission spectroscopy. The fluorescence was induced by high-pressure xenon arc lamps, which emitted continuum spectra and had higher power ratings, i.e. 1.6 and 2.5 kW, than those normally used for the same purpose. The experimental set-up included two different types of premix burners and one type of total consumption burner. A spherical reflector was applied to improve the utilization of the fluorescence radiation. Two different coatings were tested. None gave the expected enhancement.Detection limits and growth curves were measured for 8 different elements (Ca, Co, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Na and Ni) in a non-separated air/acetylene flame. The attained detection limits were found to be equally good or somewhat better in flame atomic fluorescence excited with continuum sources than previously reported in the literature, i.e. using similar flames. In flame atomic emission spectroscopy better detection limits have been reported before.