A critical review of isotopic fractionation and interference correction methods for isotope ratio measurements by laser ablation multi-collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry

Laser ablation multi-collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-MC-ICP-MS) has become a powerful technique for the in situ direct determination of isotope ratios in various solid materials. Unlike conventional solution analysis, LA-MC-ICP-MS offers analysis with high spatial resolution, high sample throughput, minimal sample preparation, and low contamination. Although the performance of LA-MC-ICP-MS has been improved greatly in the past decades, it has its inherent disadvantages such as complex isotopic fractionation/ mass bias behavior, severe matrix effect, and isobaric interference, which limits its usage. This review focuses on the latest developments related to isotopic fractionation, matrix effect, and isobaric interference as well as their correction methods for LA-MC-ICP-MS. It is evident that the appropriate correction methods for LA-MC-ICP-MS are essential to obtain accurate and precise isotope ratios and ensure the success of further applications.