EVERY ELEMENT UNDER CONTROL Solution for Water Elemental Analysis based on ICP-MS following European Regulations

Significance of the Topic

Accurate determination of trace and major elements in water is critical for ensuring compliance with European regulations and protecting public health.
High-throughput, low-detection-limit methods streamline environmental monitoring, support laboratory accreditation, and improve resource efficiency.

Objectives and Overview of the Study

This application note presents an integrated solution for water elemental analysis using the Agilent 7800 ICP-MS system.
Key goals include combining major and trace element measurement in a single run, meeting EN ISO 17294-1 & 2 standards, and reducing method development time.

Methodology

The workflow follows ISO 15587 sample preparation and uses a fully validated procedure from a partner ISO 17025 lab.
Helium cell mode mitigates polyatomic interferences, while High Matrix Introduction (HMI) and a robust plasma handle up to 3 % total dissolved solids.
Predefined SOP, auto-optimization, QC and tuning reports ensure reproducible results and support rapid implementation.

Used Instrumentation

• Agilent 7800 ICP-MS with High Matrix Introduction technology
• Integrated Sample Introduction System (ISIS 3) for discrete sampling
• SPS 4 autosampler
• Helium collision cell for interference removal

Main Results and Discussion

The system achieves low µg/L detection limits for regulated elements such as As, Cd, Hg, and Se, while covering major analytes at ppm levels in a single analysis.
Oxide ratios below 1.2 % confirm robust plasma conditions; He cell mode effectively reduces chloride-based polyatomic ions.
Sample throughput is under 90 seconds each, reducing argon consumption and boosting laboratory productivity.

Benefits and Practical Applications of the Method

• Simultaneous major and trace element quantification in one run
• Compliance with EN ISO 17294-1 & 2 and streamlined ISO 17025 accreditation
• Significant reduction in method development from weeks to days
• High stability for high-matrix environmental samples
• Onsite training and technical support accelerate adoption

Future Trends and Applications

Further integration of automated sample preparation and LIMS connectivity is expected.
Advances in portable ICP-MS platforms, AI-driven data evaluation, and coupling with chromatographic separation will expand the technique’s versatility.
Green analytical chemistry approaches may reduce reagent use and waste.

Conclusion

The Agilent 7800 ICP-MS water analysis solution delivers comprehensive, regulatory-compliant results with exceptional throughput and minimal method setup.
Its robust performance, validated SOPs, and expert support enable laboratories to enhance productivity and data quality rapidly.

References

Agilent Technologies. Solution for Water Elemental Analysis based on ICP-MS following European Regulations. Application Note 5991-7279EN (2016).