Glow Discharge Mass Spectroscopy (GDMS)

(GDMS)

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GLOW DISCHARGE MASS SPECTROSCOPY (GDMS)

High-Resolution Elemental Analysis for Metallic Impurities

Glow Discharge Mass Spectrometry (GDMS) offers unmatched sensitivity for detecting trace metallic contaminants in solid materials. Ideal for applications demanding ultra-low detection limits, GDMS provides a comprehensive chemical profile across a wide range of elements.

This technique operates by sputtering the sample surface with a low-pressure glow discharge plasma, ionizing atoms which are then analyzed by mass spectrometry. As a result, GDMS delivers full-depth, true bulk analysis, making it especially effective for purity certification and contamination control.

Note: GDMS is a destructive method, consuming the entire sample during analysis.

Common Applications:

Purity testing of high-performance materials
Contaminant screening in advanced manufacturing
Trace element analysis in metals, alloys, and oxides

Suitable Sample Types:

Sputtering targets
Refractory and high-purity metals
Rare earth metals and compounds
Precious metals and alloys

Ultra-trace detection: Capable of identifying elements at sub-ppb levels
Broad elemental coverage: Nearly the entire periodic table, excluding hydrogen
Depth-resolved data: Enables profiling of surface layers and coatings
No need for sample preparation or matrix-matched standards

Inability to detect light gases such as Hydrogen (H), Carbon (C), Nitrogen (N), and Oxygen (O₂)
Sample is consumed during the test and cannot be recovered

GDMS Technical Specifications

Signals Detected: Mass resolved positive ions
Elements Covered: All stable isotopes of elements, except H
Sensitivity: parts per billion or ppbw

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