Agilent IntelliQuant for ICP-MS

Significance of the Topic

Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) is a powerful multielement technique widely used in environmental, industrial, and food analysis. However, its full potential has often been limited by the need for expert users to develop methods and interpret data. The Agilent IntelliQuant function addresses these challenges by providing rapid semiquantitative data and enhanced sample insight without additional calibration standards, thus increasing laboratory productivity and confidence in results.

Aims and Study Overview

This technical overview describes the design and capabilities of IntelliQuant for ICP-MS. It explains how IntelliQuant integrates into Agilent’s ICP-MS workflow to deliver semiquantitative concentrations for up to 78 elements, detect potential interferences, estimate total matrix solids (TMS), and validate isotope patterns, all within a standard analytical run.

Methodology and Instrumentation

IntelliQuant is implemented in Agilent MassHunter software version 4.6 and later, operating on instruments such as the 7850 ICP-MS. Key features include:

• Quick Scan acquisition of full mass spectra (2–260 u) in helium cell mode (≤2 s per sample).
• Auto-selection of calibration and internal standard solutions based on quantitative method settings.
• Helium collision cell to reduce polyatomic interferences.
• Ultra High Matrix Introduction (UHMI) for increased tolerance of high-solid samples.
• Wide dynamic range detector for accurate semiquantitative response across diverse analytes.

Main Results and Discussion

IntelliQuant delivers the following analytical insights:

• Periodic table heat map showing semiquantitative concentrations of all detectable elements, facilitating rapid detection of unexpected high-concentration analytes (e.g., TiO2 additive in a powdered donut).
• Outlier flags highlighting masses potentially affected by interferences (doubly charged ions, residual oxides, argides) with color coding and tooltip details.
• TMS calculation to estimate dissolved solids (excluding gas or solvent elements), aiding identification of matrix effects and informing dilution or maintenance decisions.
• Isotope fingerprint matching to natural abundance templates, confirming element identity and demonstrating effective removal of interferences (e.g., 23Na40Ar on 63Cu).
• Semiquantitative recoveries for NIST 1643e water standard within ±40% for all 78 elements, with most within ±20%, validating automated response factor interpolation.

Benefits and Practical Applications

IntelliQuant enhances routine ICP-MS workflows by:

• Identifying trace or unexpected elements not included in calibration, improving safety and quality control (e.g., monitoring rare earth element interferences on As and Se).
• Flagging sample preparation errors such as missing acid additions by revealing absent matrix elements like Cl.
• Enabling proactive maintenance and sample introduction management through TMS and early maintenance feedback (EMF) data.
• Simplifying interference corrections via automated M2+ routines for REE doubly charged overlaps.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Advances likely to expand IntelliQuant capabilities include:

• Integration of AI-driven data interpretation for automated anomaly detection and correction recommendations.
• Enhanced cell-based interference removal technologies to further expand dynamic range and matrix tolerance.
• Real-time method adaptation based on incoming semiquantitative data for fully autonomous analyses.
• Broader application to emerging sample types in clinical, petrochemical, and nanomaterial analysis.

Conclusion

Agilent IntelliQuant for ICP-MS streamlines multielement analysis by delivering fast, automated semiquantitative data and comprehensive sample insights. By integrating interference detection, matrix estimation, and isotope confirmation into the routine workflow, IntelliQuant boosts productivity, ensures data quality, and reduces reliance on specialist expertise.

Reference

1. Kubota T. Fast, Accurate Analysis of 28 Elements in Water using ISO Method 17294-2: Agilent 7850 ICP-MS controls polyatomic and doubly charged interferences to deliver long-term accuracy and reproducibility in diverse water samples. Agilent publication 5994-2804EN, 2020.
2. Agilent Technologies. Simplifying Correction of Doubly Charged Ion Interferences with Agilent ICP-MS MassHunter: Fast, automated M2+ correction routine improves data accuracy for Zn, As, and Se. Publication 5994-1435EN, 2020.
3. Gray PJ, Mindak WR, Cheng J. US FDA Elemental Analysis Manual 4.7: ICP-MS determination of arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead, mercury, and other elements in food using microwave digestion. FDA, Version 1.2, 2020.
4. Nelson J, Hasty E, Anderson L, Harris M. Determination of Critical Elements in Foods in Accordance with US FDA EAM 4.7 ICP-MS Method, Extending the scope of routine food analysis using IntelliQuant data analysis. Agilent publication 5994-2839EN, 2020.
5. Agilent Technologies. Smart Self-Health Checks for ICP-MS Instruments. Publication 5994-2780EN, 2020.
6. Agilent Technologies. High Matrix Introduction. Publication 5994-1170EN, 2020.
7. Proper W, McCurdy E, Takahashi J. Performance of the Agilent 7900 ICP-MS with UHMI for High Salt Matrix Analysis: Extending the matrix tolerance of ICP-MS to percent levels of total dissolved solids. Agilent publication 5991-4257EN, 2020.