A new nebulizer for atomic spectrometry

The rotating disc nebulizer has been redesigned with respect to the principle parameters that determines its analytical performance. The flow pattern of the aerosol attained has been optimized by altering the shape of the inner chamber of the nebulizer to obtain optimum aerodynamic characteristics. The optimum angle of impact and "free flight" distance has been established using particle size distribution and mass transport efficiency as criteria. Analytical characteristics have been determined by monitoring the emission signal from aqueous standards. The accuracy has been assessed by using reference steel samples. Using standard solutions of different viscosity the performance of the nebulizer with respect to viscosity changes of the sample has been compared with that of a commercial Meinhardt nebulizer. The rotating disc nebulizer has been less affected by changes in viscosity making it possible to use this nebulizer with slurry and oil samples.