ICP-OES

Operational Principle

The process begins by nebulizing the liquid sample into a fine aerosol that is carried into the argon plasma torch. At temperatures between six thousand and ten thousand kelvins, the elements are atomized and excited to higher energy states. When these excited atoms return to their ground state, they emit light at wavelengths characteristic of each element.

The intensity of this emitted light is proportional to the concentration of the metal in the sample.

Chemical Application

Testing laboratories use this method to screen garments for restricted substances like lead, cadmium and extractable chromium. These elements can be present in plasticizers, pigments or metal zippers and must remain below strict regulatory thresholds. Analyzing these components ensures that the imported goods comply with chemical safety standards.

It protects brands from liability under global consumer safety laws.

Detection Performance

The method offers broad dynamic range and low detection limits, typically in the parts-per-billion range. This performance allows the detection of trace contaminants that might otherwise pass unnoticed. It remains an essential tool for modern textile laboratory analysis.