Inductively coupled plasma torch structure with flared outlet

A method of operating an inductively coupled plasma torch, comprising:

• introducing an aerosolized sample to an interior of a tubular sample injector of an inductively coupled plasma torch, the inductively coupled plasma torch including:
• an inner tube surrounding at least a portion of the tubular sample injector to form a first annular space between the inner tube and the walls of the tubular sample injector, the inner tube defining a plurality of inlet ports for introduction of an auxiliary gas into the first annular space, the plurality of inlet ports linearly aligned and arranged tangent to the inner surface of the inner tube to provide laminar flow of the auxiliary gas within the first annular region, and
• an outer tube surrounding at least a portion of the inner tube to form a second annular space, the outer tube defining a plurality of inlet ports for introduction of a cooling gas into the second annular space, the plurality of inlet ports being linearly aligned to facilitate tangential flow under laminar flow conditions, the outer tube having a flared region at an outlet of the outer tube;
• introducing the auxiliary gas into the first annular space of the inductively coupled plasma torch via the plurality of inlet ports of the inner tube;
• and
• introducing the cooling gas at a flow rate of less than 12 L/min into the second annular space of the inductively coupled plasma torch via the plurality of inlet ports of the outer tube.