New Method for Trace Metal Determinations by Monitoring Modulated Magnetically Induced Optical Rotation in Atomic Vapours

摘要

A new atomic magneto-optical rotation spectrometer (AMORS) for the determination of trace metals is described. This instrument differs from previous AMORS devices by utilizing an electronically variable optical retardation element to modulate polarisation and a phase meter for detection of the analytical signal. Preliminary detection limits for Li, K and Mg are comparable to those reported for atomic absorption spectrometry under similar analysis conditions. Furthermore, this novel method of signal detection is insensitive to changes in the light intensity transmitted through the atomizer. Experimental evidence suggests that the spectral bandwidth of the radiation source and the range over which the optical retardation element is varied can significantly affect detection limits. Keywords: Coherent forward scattering, Atomic faraday effect, Elemental analysis. (MJM)