The trace element analyzer is based on Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) technology. It utilizes a high-frequency radio frequency (RF) signal to generate a high-temperature plasma that ionizes the analytes. The mass spectrometer then detects the ions' mass-to-charge ratio and intensity, enabling the quantification of elemental concentrations in the sample.

The working principle involves two main components:

• Plasma: Where the sample aerosol is atomized and ionized within the plasma.
• Mass Spectrometer: Which separates ions according to their mass-to-charge (m/z) ratios, allowing identification and quantification of different elements.