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Inductively Coupled Plasma Techniques: ICP-AES and ICP-MS

Mining, metallurgical and water laboratories across Africa rely on ICP-AES and ICP-MS for trace element analysis, from ore grade control to drinking water compliance. This five day course builds a working understanding of plasma generation, sample introduction, spectral and mass interferences, and quantitation strategies, enabling analysts to operate both techniques confidently and select the right tool for the sample matrix.

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What you will be able to do

  • Explain the fundamentals of plasma generation and ion or photon detection in ICP systems.
  • Prepare samples and standards suitable for trace and ultra trace element analysis.
  • Recognise spectral interferences in ICP-AES and mass interferences in ICP-MS.
  • Apply interference correction and internal standardisation techniques to improve accuracy.
  • Operate ICP-AES and ICP-MS instruments for routine multi element determinations.
  • Select the appropriate technique and calibration approach for a given sample matrix.

Course outline

  1. 01Plasma Generation and Sample Introduction
  2. 02ICP-AES Optics and Detection
  3. 03ICP-MS Mass Analysers and Detection
  4. 04Spectral and Mass Interferences
  5. 05Interference Correction Techniques
  6. 06Calibration and Internal Standardisation
  7. 07Method Selection for Sample Matrices
  8. 08Troubleshooting and Routine Maintenance

Who should attend

This course is designed for analytical chemists, instrument technicians and R&D staff performing trace element analysis in mining, metallurgical, water or environmental laboratories.

Dates, venues and fees

DatesVenueDaysFeeCalendarRegister
28 Sep to 2 Oct 2026Harare5US$1,800Closed
5 to 9 Oct 2026Accra5US$1,800Register
12 to 16 Oct 2026Lagos5US$1,800Register
19 to 23 Oct 2026Dubai5US$1,800Register
26 to 30 Oct 2026Johannesburg5R18,000Register
2 to 6 Nov 2026Cape Town5R18,000Register
9 to 13 Nov 2026Durban5R18,000Register
16 to 20 Nov 2026Pretoria5R18,000Register
23 to 27 Nov 2026Nairobi5US$1,800Register
30 Nov to 4 Dec 2026Dar es Salaam5US$1,800Register
7 to 11 Dec 2026Lusaka5US$1,800Register

Fees are per delegate. South African venues are priced in rand; other locations and online in US dollars. Fees exclude 15% VAT where applicable. Group bookings of three or more delegates from the same organisation qualify for a reduced rate; contact us for a quotation.

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