ICP-OES Organics Kit Installation Instructions

Importance of the topic

The introduction of high vapor–pressure organic solvents directly into ICP-OES systems poses challenges such as torch fouling, carbon deposition and plasma instability. The Agilent ICP-OES Organics Kit addresses these issues by combining a cooled spray chamber, controlled oxygen flow and specialized tubing to enable safe, reliable and direct analysis of solvents like gasoline and naphtha without prior dilution.

Objectives and overview of the document

This installation guide aims to describe the components, setup procedures and safety considerations for the Agilent ICP-OES Organics Kit. It covers torch assembly, spray chamber integration, tubing connections and operation tips to ensure optimal performance when analyzing organic matrices.

Methodology and instrumentation used

The Organics Kit interfaces with both axial and radial ICP-OES instruments and is best used alongside an AGM 1 Auxiliary Gas Module to introduce oxygen into the plasma. Key components and requirements include:

• Cooled spray chamber: Recirculating cooler down to –10 °C, 260 W capacity, 5 L/min flow, 2 m hoses, ethylene glycol/water coolant.
• Demountable torch: Assembly of torch body, injector tube and holder, positioning injector tip 3 mm below the intermediate tube.
• Tubing: Organic-resistant transfer lines, peristaltic pump tubing (black for sample, grey for drain), capillary tubing.
• Fittings and hardware: Nebulizer holder with O-rings, hose clamps, mounting bracket and screws.
• Nebulizer: Standard K-style concentric glass nebulizer supplied with the instrument.

Installation follows these main steps:

1. Shutdown plasma and remove existing torch and spray chamber.
2. Assemble and install the demountable torch, connecting plasma and auxiliary gas hoses (AGM 1 attachment if used).
3. Mount and bracket the cooled spray chamber, connect coolant hoses and secure nebulizer holder.
4. Attach sample and drain peristaltic tubing, install capillary to autosampler or sample container.
5. Verify all connections for leaks or bubbles before operation.

Main results and discussion

Proper installation of the Organics Kit yields a stable plasma during high-vapor solvent aspiration and prevents carbon buildup in the torch. The oxygen flow from the AGM 1 oxidizes carbon precursors, while the cooled spray chamber condenses solvent vapors to minimize aerosol droplet size and carryover. Operators observing leak-free tubing connections and correct bracket positioning report consistent detection limits and reduced maintenance downtime.

Benefits and practical applications

The Organics Kit enables:

• Direct analysis of gasoline, naphtha and other volatile organics without dilution.
• Improved plasma stability and extended torch lifetime.
• Reduced carbon deposit formation and simplified cleanup routines.
• Integration with existing ICP-OES setups using standard nebulizers and peristaltic pumps.

Future trends and potential applications

Advancements in cooled spray chamber materials and low-dead-volume nebulizer designs could further enhance sensitivity for complex organic matrices. Integration with automated gas control and real-time plasma diagnostics promises smarter solvent analysis workflows. Emerging applications include biofuel characterization, petrochemical QA/QC and environmental monitoring of volatile contaminants.

Conclusion

The Agilent ICP-OES Organics Kit provides a comprehensive solution for direct organic solvent analysis, combining temperature control, oxygen dosing and tailored fluidics. Its straightforward installation and robust performance support reliable, high-throughput ICP-OES measurements of challenging sample types, reducing downtime and maintenance while ensuring data quality.