Agilent OneNeb Series 2 Nebulizers

Significance of Topic

The efficient generation and delivery of fine aerosols is critical for accurate elemental analysis by ICP-OES and MP-AES. The Agilent OneNeb Series 2 nebulizer addresses common challenges such as sensitivity loss, high detection limits, sample matrix interferences, and blockage from high total dissolved solids (TDS). Its robust design and Flow Blurring technology support consistent results across diverse applications, improving laboratory productivity and data quality.

Study Overview

This application note evaluates the performance of the Agilent OneNeb Series 2 nebulizer compared with conventional glass concentric nebulizers. Key objectives include assessing sensitivity, precision, detection limits, TDS tolerance, long-term stability, and wash-out behavior for routine, volume-limited, aggressive digest, organic solvent, and high-TDS samples.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The study employed Flow Blurring nebulization, where nebulizer gas is introduced axially to create turbulent mixing and fine microdroplets. Aerosol droplet size distribution, transport efficiency, and signal stability were measured on Agilent ICP-OES and MP-AES systems.

• Instrument: Agilent OneNeb Series 2 nebulizer with EFTE body and PEEK fittings.
• Spray chamber: Cyclonic (glass or inert) for optimal aerosol conditioning.
• Sample introduction: Peristaltic pump (0.04–2.0 mL/min uptake) with PEEK capillary and conical adapter.
• Sample types: High-TDS solutions (up to 25%), particulate suspensions, aggressive acid digests (including HF), organics, and limited-volume samples.

Main Results and Discussion

Flow Blurring generated droplets predominantly <10 µm, boosting transport efficiency and sensitivity up to fourfold compared to conventional nebulizers. Detection limits for key elements (Ag, Al, As, Ba, Cd, Cu, Mn, Na, etc.) improved by 10–200%. Precision remained better than 1% RSD. The Series 2 tolerated TDS levels up to 25% without blockage and maintained <5% RSD over eight hours of continuous operation on a nickel alloy CRM in HF/aqua regia digest. Wash-out times for high-matrix samples were significantly reduced, enhancing throughput and minimizing memory effects.

Practical Applications and Benefits

Adopting OneNeb Series 2 provides:

• Seamless replacement of glass concentric nebulizers without method changes.
• Improved detection limits and lower reporting limits.
• High robustness against drops and clogged capillaries.
• Broad chemical compatibility, including organics and aggressive acids.
• Reduced downtime, maintenance, and supply complexity.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Further integration of Flow Blurring in microvolume and portable plasma systems may expand trace analysis in environmental, petrochemical, and bioanalytical fields. Advances in inert materials could enhance compatibility with emerging sample types, while automated aerosol diagnostics promise real-time performance monitoring and adaptive optimization.

Conclusion

The Agilent OneNeb Series 2 nebulizer delivers substantial gains in sensitivity, precision, and operational resilience for ICP-OES and MP-AES. Its Flow Blurring design and inert construction enable reliable analysis of challenging matrices with minimal method disruption, establishing a new benchmark for routine and advanced elemental analysis.

Reference

No external literature references were provided.