Benefits of a vertically oriented torch— fast, accurate results, even for your toughest samples

Significance of the topic

Analysis of samples with high total dissolved solids (TDS) is critical in environmental, mining, and soil laboratories. Traditional horizontal torches often struggle with high-matrix or volatile samples, leading to frequent maintenance and reduced precision. Vertical torches in ICP-OES address these challenges by offering enhanced robustness, lower detection limits, and improved long-term stability.

Goals and overview of the study

This technical overview examines the performance advantages of a vertically oriented torch in the Agilent 5100 ICP-OES. The study aims to demonstrate how vertical torch orientation, combined with solid-state RF technology and advanced gas control, enables reliable, high-precision analysis of challenging, high-TDS samples.

Methodology and instrumentation

The Agilent 5100 ICP-OES was evaluated in its Synchronous Vertical Dual View (SVDV), Vertical Dual View (VDV), and Radial View (RV) configurations, each equipped with a vertical torch. Key features include:

• Plug-and-play vertical torch with automatic alignment and mass flow controllers for all plasma gases
• Solid-state RF system operating at 27 MHz, 700–1500 W, for rapid plasma condition adjustments
• Dichroic Spectral Combiner (DSC) technology for simultaneous axial and radial emission collection

Performance testing involved a 25% NaCl solution spiked with 0.25 mg/L each of As, Cd, Pb, and Se. Analysis was conducted in SVDV mode using a high-solids dual view torch (2.4 mm ID injector) and an argon humidifier accessory over a four-hour period with rinse cycles between runs.

Main results and discussion

The 5100 ICP-OES achieved:

• Relative standard deviations below 2.1% for all elements over four hours
• Stable plasma generation across volatile organic and high-salt matrices
• Rapid start-up and consistent torch alignment, eliminating routine manual adjustments
• Lower gas consumption and reduced downtime compared to conventional designs

These findings confirm that vertical torch orientation provides axially viewed detection limits while maintaining the robustness of radial viewing.

Benefits and practical applications

Key advantages of the vertical torch configuration include:

• Enhanced durability and extended torch lifetime
• Minimal maintenance due to automatic alignment and robust plasma control
• High throughput for environmental, mining, and QA/QC laboratories
• Flexibility to upgrade from VDV to SVDV on site as analytical demands increase

Practitioners can confidently analyze high-matrix samples such as brines, sludges, and acid digests with fewer interruptions and consistent results.

Future trends and opportunities

Emerging developments are likely to focus on:

• Further integration of AI-driven plasma optimization and diagnostics
• Automated sample preparation and real-time method adjustments
• Coupling vertical-torch ICP-OES with separation techniques for speciation analysis
• Enhanced connectivity with laboratory informatics and remote monitoring systems
• Environmental footprint reduction through optimized gas usage and power management

Conclusion

The Agilent 5100 ICP-OES with vertical torch orientation offers unmatched stability, precision, and ease of operation for high-TDS and volatile samples. Its combination of solid-state RF, DSC technology, and automated torch alignment delivers reliable, maintenance-free performance, making it an ideal choice for demanding analytical applications.

Reference

Agilent Technologies. Technical Overview: 5100 ICP-OES. Publication number 5991-4854EN, July 1, 2014.