Development of a Multiple-Element Flame Emission Spectrometer Using CCD Detection

Robin M. Bright , Paul O. Momoh and Amelia D. Bozeman
Department of Chemistry, Fort Valley State University, Fort Valley, GA 31030
Caryn S. Seney and Karen V. Sinclair
Department of Chemistry, Mercer University, Macon GA 31207
J. Chem. Educ., 2005, 82 (12), p 1826
DOI: 10.1021/ed082p1826
Publication Date (Web): December 1, 2005

Abstract

A compact, modular, multiple-element flame emission spectrometer has been designed, constructed, and characterized. A 50-mm x 0.4-mm slot burner head is used for atomization. Emission signals are focused onto the entrance aperture of an affordable high-performance CCD–spectrograph system, a CVI 110 1/8-m monochromator attached to a ST-6 CCD. The analytical performance of the system has been characterized through the studies of the concentration of environmentally significant elements, such as Ca, K, Na, Cu, Mn, Pb, Cr, Fe, Ni, Mg, and Co. The experiment using the modular system described here offers a time-efficient technique that allows for multiple-element detection in the instrumental analysis undergraduate laboratory by introducing a relatively new method of detection. Our instrument design utilizes the characteristics of the CCD detector, allowing the students to design and build their own instrument and also to align, collect, and manipulate data from their instrument, thereby gaining a deeper understanding of instrumentation, multiple-element emission analysis, and limitations imposed by either solution preparation or instrumental parameters; all of which can be studied within five, three-hour laboratory periods.

Keywords (Audience):

Upper-Division Undergraduate

Keywords (Domain):

Laboratory Instruction

Keywords (Pedagogy):

Hands-On Learning / Manipulatives

Keywords (Subject):

Atomic Spectroscopy
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  • Received: August 03, 2009

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