Wire and Rod Analysis by Glow Discharge

Glow Discharge Spectrometry (GDS) is an analytical method for the direct determination of the elemental composition of solid samples. A prepared flat sample is mounted on the glow discharge source, then the source is evacuated and backfilled with argon. A constant electric field is applied between the sample (cathode) and the electrically grounded body of the lamp (anode). These conditions result in the spontaneous formation of a stable, self–sustained discharge, which is called a glow discharge.