This part of ISO 17294 specifies the principles of inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and provides general directions for the use of this technique for determining elements in water. Generally, the measurement is carried out in water, but gases, vapours or fine particulate matter may be introduced too. This International Standard applies to the use of ICP-MS for water analysis.

The ultimate determination of the elements is described in a separate International Standard for each series of elements and matrix. The individual parts of this International Standards refer the reader to these guidelines for the basic principles of the method and for configuration of the instrument.