MAGMA Lab - Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry

TU - Technische Universität Berlin

last updated: October 13, 2025

About the Laboratory

MAGMA Lab - Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry

TU - Technische Universität Berlin

@ Applied Geochemistry

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MAGMA Lab laboratory complex
Networks: Geo.X

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Description

LA-ICP-MS is a micro-destructive technique which enables the in situ analysis of elements and isotope ratios across the periodic table at very high scanning speeds and with very low detection limits. The 8900 ICP-QQQ is able to utilize reactive cell gases to resolve difficult spectral interferences. Samples: rock sections (max. 10 x 10 cm), 1 and 1/2 inch rounds; Spot size: 1 - 155 μm

Instruments

The Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry is a technique used for the in situ analysis of trace elements in solid samples. It can determine many elements in the periodic table to high degrees of accuracy and precision. The technique complements electron microprobe analysis, typically measuring trace elements at a lower concentration range (1 ppb - 100 ppm). Solid particles are physically ablated due to the interaction of a high power (> 1 x 1010 Wcm-2) laser beam with the surface of the sample. The particles are carried in a stream of inert gas (helium or argon) into an argon plasma where they are ionized before measurement in a quadruple mass spectrometer. Isotopes are measured to determine elemental concentrations. Additional information available at "http://www.geo.uu.nl/Research/Petrology/what.htm" [Summary provided by Universiteit Utrecht] (Source: Global Change Master Directory (GCMD). 2023. GCMD Keywords, Version 16.3 [...] )
LA-ICP-MS - Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer

Analytical Methods

The Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry is a technique used for the in situ analysis of trace elements in solid samples. It can determine many elements in the periodic table to high degrees of accuracy and precision. The technique complements electron microprobe analysis, typically measuring trace elements at a lower concentration range (1 ppb - 100 ppm). Solid particles are physically ablated due to the interaction of a high power (> 1 x 1010 Wcm-2) laser beam with the surface of the sample. The particles are carried in a stream of inert gas (helium or argon) into an argon plasma where they are ionized before measurement in a quadruple mass spectrometer. Isotopes are measured to determine elemental concentrations. Additional information available at "http://www.geo.uu.nl/Research/Petrology/what.htm" [Summary provided by Universiteit Utrecht] (Source: Global Change Master Directory (GCMD). 2023. GCMD Keywords, Version 16.3 [...] )
LA-ICP-MS - Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry

Laboratory Keywords

Disciplines

Geoscience > Geochemistry > Geochemistry
Geochemistry
Geoscience > Geochemistry > Mineralogy
Mineralogy
Geoscience > Geology > Geology
Geology

The Research Network for Geosciences in Berlin and Potsdam

MAGMA Lab - Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry

TU - Technische Universität Berlin

About the Laboratory

MAGMA Lab - Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry

Access

Description

Instruments

Analytical Methods

Laboratory Keywords

Disciplines

Links