G.O.Joe: A novel non-commercial software tool for the processing of LA-ICP-MS data

The coupling of laser ablation systems with inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometers (LA-ICP-MS) was introduced in the 1980s. Since then, this technique has become indispensable for rapid, in-situ trace element and isotopic analysis of both natural and synthetic solid samples. Its applications extend across various fields, including chemistry, material science, geosciences as well as biological and environmental analysis, bio-imaging and forensic investigations. However, analytical advances are still needed to overcome problems in trace element analysis using LA-ICP-MS caused e.g. by interferences that cannot be solved instrumentally.

The novel and non-commercial software tool G.O.Joe is designed to facilitate the calculation of trace element mass fractions in solid samples obtained by LA-ICP-MS analysis. It is written in the Dart programming language using the Flutter framework and operates completely web-based, eliminating the need for installation and allowing access from any location with an internet connection. Since the calculation of the data itself is performed on the user’s computer, no upload of measured data to the G.O.Joe-server is necessary thereby maximizing data safety. In addition to a quick and efficient processing of large datasets (>400 analyses), G.O.Joe includes several types of optional interference corrections.

The intuitive user interface of G.O.Joe simplifies the workflow during data evaluation, including straightforward selections of peak- and background signals, importing instrument settings and reference material compositions as well as mass fractions of the internal standard to convert the measured raw signals into element mass fractions. To ensure a transparency in data processing, the results file (.xlsx) includes the calculated element mass fractions, associated statistical parameters as well as input data alongside instrument settings. In addition, the user can download a more comprehensive file with the results after each step of the calculation. The detailed Major advantages of the software are the implemented correction measures for isobaric interferences and abundance sensitivity.

G.O.Joe’s key features are presented by processing the mineral chemical analyses of two case studies, including trace element analyses of tungstates (e.g., scheelite) and silicates (e.g., garnet). Conclusively, G.O.Joe is a time-efficient, transparent and easy-to-use software, appealing to both experienced LA-ICP-MS users as well as newcomers to LA-ICP-MS data analysis. More details and the latest version of G.O.Joe are available at the following link: https://www.gojoe.software