Singly Charged Argide ArM+ Ions in Inductively Coupled Plasma–Mass Spectrometry

Singly charged argide ArM+ ions in inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (ICP–MS) can cause significant spectral interferences in the determination of all elements of the Periodic Table of the Elements with atomic numbers above 36 and measurements of their isotopic composition. This review presents examples of the such characteristic interferences and respective recommended and used interference tables for different elements. Published data on the determination of the dissociation energies of ArM+ ions by experimental and theoretical methods are summarized. The relationship between the dissociation energies of argide ions and their intensities in the mass spectrum is discussed. The experimental determination of the numerical values of the interference level ArM+/M+ in ICP–MS and the influence of various instrumental and operation parameters on this ratio are considered. The main options for the account and reduction of the effect of ArM+ in the mass spectra or elimination of the interference of argide ions are presented. A conclusion and recommendations on the considered publications are made.