FULLY AUTOMATED MATRIX REMOVAL AND SAMPLE PURIFICATION FOR ICPMS AND MC-ICPMS

To better understand bio, geo and biogeochemical processes, large quantities of high quality data are required. Over the past decade, advances in sample introduction techniques combined with ICP-MS and MC-ICP-MS instrumentation have improved analytical precision, accuracy and detection limits for trace metal concentration and high precision isotopic ratio determination. However, many analyses still require significant sample preparation for which the laboratory bottleneck remains. The recent development of automated sample preparation systems (seaFASTTM and prepFAST-MC™, ESI, Omaha, USA) provide a platform to address this bottleneck for a range of sample types and applications. The system uses specially designed fluoropolymer valves, precise and accurate syringe control, and an autosampler all controlled by a flexible, yet simple, software package to automate tedious and time consuming sample preparation. The system allows sample loading, multiple acid washes, column conditioning and elution cycles necessary to isolate elements of interest and automatically collect or directly inject eluent fractions.
Case studies from existing labs will be used to illustrate the systems wide range of capabilities. The seaFASTTM is used to determine a variety of elements in seawater ranging from single digit ngL-1 concentrations of Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu and Zn to ultra-trace levels (10s of pgL-1) of REEs. Newly developed protocols for the prepFAST-MC™ automate the purification of B, Ca, Fe, Cu, Zn, Sr, Pb, U and Th for isotopic analysis from a variety of sample types.
The seaFASTTM and prepFAST-MC™ maximizes sample throughput and minimizes costs associated with personnel and consumables providing an opportunity to greatly expand research horizons in fields where large isotopic data sets are required, including archeology, geochemistry, climate/environmental science, biomedical sciences and food authentication