Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) for spatially resolved trace element determination of solids using an autofocus system

Abstract Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry was used for spatially resolved trace element analysis of archaeological samples. An autofocus system was built in order to achieve reproducible ablation conditions. This system allows focusing of any sample automatically, with an accuracy of 10–50 μm, in the focal plane of the laser, or any height specified by the user, and can correct for surface roughness point per point. The applicability of the autofocus system is demonstrated. Trace element determination of archaeological samples with a lateral resolution of 50 μm is shown as an example. Absolute detection limits of 01–1.4 pg are achieved.