Improving Sample Throughput for Metals Analysis with Intelligent Automated Standard & Sample IntroductionMetals Analysis
Oral Presentation
Prepared by C. Jones
Agilent Technologies, Inc., 5301 Stevens Creek Blvd., Santa Clara, CA, 95051, United States
Contact Information: [email protected]; 408-203-8677
ABSTRACT
ICP-MS, which can measure multiple elements simultaneously with high sensitivity, is used in many environmental laboratories to quantify hazardous elements in environmental samples. As environmental laboratories often need to analyze many samples routinely, increasing the efficiency of sample analysis through automation frees the lab staff to focus on other tasks such as data review. To improve workflow efficiency, a new application for environmental analysis from drinking waters to soils is described. Utilizing new capabilities of inline auto dilution for ICP-MS and ICP-OES, consisting of three main functions. The first is the ability to make calibration curves from a single stock solution, which significantly reduces the preparation time for standard solutions. The second is the ability to automatically dilute samples directly prior to measurement, reducing the preparation time for samples with high matrix concentrations such as sediments and soils. The third is the ability to automatically dilute and re-measure samples immediately when the concentration of target elements exceed the calibration range or the internal standard elements exhibit suppression or enhancement. Making it possible to prevent post-analysis rework by avoiding manual dilution of affected samples. Inline auto-dilution not only reduces manual labor, but also avoids the risk of human error and contamination, further improving laboratory productivity. This presentation will also report on the evaluation of dilution accuracy, precision and long-term stability using certified reference materials.
