ICP/MS services doubled

Environmental NEWS - Fall 2009

Lancaster Laboratories Metals Department is expanding its capabilities for metals by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Added in our Schedule of Services, this list will include the complete Target Analyte List (TAL), Boron, Lithium, Molybdenum, Phosphorus, Strontium, Tin, Titanium, Vanadium and Zirconium. Capabilities are being expanded to accommodate the increasing need for low detection limits on many elements. Previously, testing was limited to the traditional Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption (GFAA) elements, which were typically the elements that were in need of these low limits. The evolution of ICP-MS technology has now made it practical to analyze typical Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometry (ICP-AES) elements and typical GFAA elements together on one analytical run with the low sensitivity that’s offered by ICP-MS.

Lancaster Laboratories utilizes the newest advances in ICP-MS technology when analyzing samples. The Metals Lab utilizes a collision/reaction cell as one of its accessories for ICP-MS for elements that are prone to polyatomic interferences. The collision/reaction cell serves the function of preventing polyatomic interferences from reaching the detector either through collision or reaction mechanisms. These polyatomic interferences are a primary reason for false positive results on a non-collision cell ICP-MS. Before this advance, samples either had to be switched to Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-AES) to avoid the interferences or diluted to reduce the interferences.
The Lab also uses a High Matrix Interface (HMI) which allows samples with higher total dissolved solids to be analyzed with little or no dilution. This accessory significantly improves matrix tolerance and reduces signal drift. Before the advent of HMI, ICP-MS instrumentation was limited to analyzing samples with less than 0.2 percent Total Dissolved Solids (TDS). With the HMI in place, samples can be analyzed with TDS values at 2 percent to 3 percent and still maintain excellent stability.

The collision cell and HMI serve two unique purposes that work in tandem to achieve superior results in difficult matrices. Use of the collision cell and HMI equates to lower reporting limits for our clients due to the fact that most samples can be run without dilution and subsequent elevated reporting limits. It also equates to reliable results since troublesome, polyatomic interferences are removed.

This expanded list of elements, coupled with our technical expertise and cutting edge technical advances make this new service a great value to the customer. For more information on this service contact environmental business development at 717-656-2300.