The bulk of the samples run on the system are powders, but the system can be configured for collection of thin-film data. We work with the TIMS facility at the University of Rochester. Using this equipment we measure the Sm-Nd isotopic ration in my samples. Mass spectrometry is therefore useful for quantification of atoms or molecules and also for determining chemical and structural information about molecules. Molecules have distinctive fragmentation patterns that provide structural information to identify structural components.
Thermal ionization is used for elemental or refractory materials.
A sample is deposited on a metal ribbon, such as Pt or Re, and an electric current heats the metal to a high temperature. The ribbon is often coated with graphite to provide a reducing effect. We use this instrument to measure total and organic carbon n water and sediment samples. We also have thin sectioning equipment.