Selected isotope ratio measurements of light metallic elements (Li, Mg, Ca, and Cu) by multiple collector ICP-MS

The unique capabilities of multiple collector inductively coupled mass spectrometry (MC-ICP-MS) for high precision isotope ratio measurements in light elements as Li, Mg, Ca, and Cu are reviewed in this paper. These elements have been intensively studied at the Geological Survey of Israel (GSI) and other laboratories over the past few years, and the methods used to obtain high precision isotope analyses are discussed in detail. The scientific study of isotopic fractionation of these elements is significant for achieving a better understanding of geochemical and biochemical processes in nature and the environment

Environmental monitoring of plutonium at ultratrace level in natural water (Sea of Galilee - Israel) by ICP-SFMS and MC-ICP-MS

An analytical method for the determination of plutonium concentration and its isotope ratio at ultratrace level in natural water by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) is proposed. In order to preconcentrate Pu and to avoid matrix effects and clogging effects on the cones during the mass spectrometric measurements, an effective Pu separation procedure (on TEVA resin) from the matrix was applied. Studies of the separation procedure for 2.1 pg of Pu-242 spiked into 100 L of lake water from the Sea of Galilee result in a recovery of 62%. The detection limits of Pu-239 in 100 L lake water were determined as 1x10(-19) g mL(-1) and 3x10(-20) g mL(-1) using ICP-SFMS and MC-ICP-MS, respectively. Pu-239 was detected in the Sea of Galilee at a concentration level of about 3.6x10(-19) g mL(-1) with a Pu-240/Pu-239 isotope ratio of 0.17. This measured plutonium isotope ratio is the most probable evidence of plutonium contamination of the Sea of Galilee as a result of global nuclear fallout after the nuclear weapons tests in the sixties. This paper discusses applications of double-focusing sector field ICP-MS with single and multiple ion collection for the quantitative determination of plutonium and its isotope ratio at the 10(-19) g mL(-1) level in natural water