There are lots of technological advancements used in tracing element analysis. One of the widely used equipment is the inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry. The technique has been in use for quite some time now due to its highly sophisticated reliability and multi-element option. Here’s what each needs to know about ICP-OES systems.
The two systems
The ICP-OES systems are subdivided into two systems. The first one is the ICAP 6000(Thermo Fischer Scientific, Bremen, Germany. Simultaneously, the second one is the high-end system ARCOS (Spectro analytical, Kleve, Germany).
The principle behind ICP-OES
The analysis often takes place by the peristaltic pump via a nebulizer into the spray chamber. The plasma gets generated into four states of matter which the alteration in the magnetic fields. Each element produced has a distinguished emission spectrum. The light wavelength’s light intensity gets measured while the calibration also become calculated into a concentration.
The benefits of ICP-OES
The fascinating thing about the icp oes instrument is that it gets used in all the environmental sample matrices. With its fascinating features, it plays a crucial role in the different types of environmental applications.
In this equipment, the analytical grade reagents are always in abundance. There’s also an easier way to handle the machine. Thus, no need for a specialist with high expertise to use the equipment. Another great detail about this instrument is that it is quite affordable if the elements don’t require a low detection limit compared to ICP-MS delivery.
While using this tool, errors are bound to arise. However, that isn’t a cause for alarm. These mistakes are easily correctable. With the machine’s dynamic range, high detection power, and versatility, you can’t fail to have some hiccups. Here’s how to use the equipment to its full potential while avoiding the severe errors
- The nebulizer blockage
Here’s one of the monotonous problems that might manifest while using the ICP-OES equipment when aspirating liquid samples. While these particles often block the tiny capillary tube, they also lead to performance errors. If you’re experiencing this challenge, you need to centrifuge your samples. You can also choose to change the nebulizer type with one that has a larger internal diameter. It’s also advisable to use an argon humidifier to ensure the nebulizer’s tip is always moist to minimize solid particle blockages.
- The plasma touch downtime contribution
The plasma touch is likely to undergo some biting incidents during the aspiration of concentrated matrix samples. The deposits often lead to blockage on the torch injector and will minimize the signal. It’s best always to take note of the torch you’ll occasionally use and see if it’s foolproof before using it again.
It’d help if you become extra vigilant while choosing an ICP-OES instrument that suits your need. Be sure to watch out for the errors that might occur and how to handle them best. It’d be best to focus on areas that one is most likely to forget about them. It’d be best to remember that this equipment’s components play a crucial role in ensuring you get an accurate analysis.
