Sample introduction system

An automated in-torch sample introduction system for introducing a sample to be analyzed into a spectrometer, comprising:

• a) sample holder means for carrying said sample to be analyzed;
• b) a modified conventional inductively coupled plasma torch having a plasma fed by inert gas through outer and intermediate feed channels in an enlarged gas tube, an inner axial tube having one end open adjacent said plasma and an opposite end open for receiving said sample holder means for feeding the sample to the plasma, said inner axial tube tapering to a reduced diameter adjacent said one end to form a well defined channel for feeding said sample to said plasma, means for positioning said sample holder means in said inner axial tube a predetermined distance below said plasma, and means for sealing said opposite end of said inner axial tube;
• c) means for vaporizing said sample;
• d) said inner axial tube having an enlarged diameter volatization chamber in which said material is volatized by said means for vaporizing, said volatization chamber communicating with an inert gas inlet for transport of said material to the plasma;
• e) means for inserting and retracting said sample holder means into and out of, respectively, said opposite end of said inner axial tube;
• f) said inner axial tube having an enlarged diameter drying chamber in which said material is dried, said drying chamber being located adjacent and below said volatization chamber, and communicating with a drying gas inlet for drying said material before volatization;
• g) a rotatable autosampler for carrying said sample and plurality of further samples;
• h) a swing arm for transporting said sample from among said plurality of samples on said rotatable autosampler;
• and
• i) means for controlling said rotatable autosampler and said swing arm.