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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.

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

DatesVenueDaysFeeCalendar
17 to 21 Aug 2026Mozambique5US$1,800
24 to 28 Aug 2026Cairo5US$1,800
31 Aug to 4 Sep 2026Accra5US$1,800
7 to 11 Sep 2026Lusaka5US$1,800
14 to 18 Sep 2026Kigali5US$1,800
21 to 25 Sep 2026Nairobi5US$1,800
28 Sep to 2 Oct 2026Durban5R18,000
5 to 9 Oct 2026Johannesburg5R18,000
19 to 23 Oct 2026Mauritius5US$1,800
26 to 30 Oct 2026Dubai5US$1,800
2 to 6 Nov 2026Lagos5US$1,800
9 to 13 Nov 2026Harare5US$1,800
16 to 20 Nov 2026Kampala5US$1,800
23 to 27 Nov 2026Dar es Salaam5US$1,800
30 Nov to 4 Dec 2026Pretoria5R18,000
7 to 11 Dec 2026Cape Town5R18,000
21 to 25 Dec 2026Online5US$900

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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