Analysis of River Water by ICPMS-2030

Importance of the topic

Monitoring river water is essential to safeguard public health and the environment. Drinking water supplies often originate from surface and groundwater sources that must comply with strict regulatory limits for major and trace elements. Advanced analytical techniques are needed to detect contaminants at low concentrations and to ensure safe water for human consumption.

Objectives and overview of the study

This study evaluates the performance of the Shimadzu ICPMS-2030 inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer for quantifying 19 elements in certified river water reference materials (JSAC 0301-3 and 0302-3). The analysis follows Japanese ministerial ordinances on water quality standards to assess both major ions and trace metals relevant to drinking water regulations.

Methodology and instrumention

A calibration curve method was applied for elements including Pb, Cr, Cd, Se, As, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn, B, Al, Ni, Ba, Mo, U, K, Na, Mg, and Ca. Internal standards (Co, Ga, Y, In, Tl) were spiked at 5 μg/L to correct drift and matrix effects. A helium collision cell (CC mode) removed polyatomic interferences such as ArO on Fe 56, ArCl on As 75, and ArAr on Se 78. Eco mode operation and a mini torch minimized argon consumption and reduced operating costs compared to earlier ICP-MS systems.

Used instrumentation

• Shimadzu ICPMS-2030 with helium collision system
• Calibration standards for 19 elements
• Internal reference standards: Co, Ga, Y, In, Tl
• River water reference materials JSAC 0301-3 and JSAC 0302-3

Results and discussion

Collision cell operation significantly improved background equivalent concentrations (BEC) and detection limits. For example, Fe BEC decreased from 97 to 0.3 μg/L and the detection limit from 2 to 0.04 μg/L. Se BEC improved from 7.2 to 0.76 μg/L with a detection limit of 0.06 μg/L. Quantitative results for all measured elements closely matched certified values for both reference materials, demonstrating accurate quantification even at trace concentration levels below regulatory limits.

Benefits and practical applications

• High sensitivity and low detection limits for major and trace elements
• Reduced spectral interferences through collision cell technology
• Cost-effective operation using Eco mode and mini torch
• Compliance with drinking water quality regulations

Future trends and potential uses

Ongoing developments may include integration of real-time monitoring capabilities, automated sample handling, and coupling with speciation techniques. Advances in instrument miniaturization and software driven data processing will further streamline water quality testing. The application of artificial intelligence for spectral deconvolution and predictive maintenance promises even greater analytical reliability.

Conclusion

The Shimadzu ICPMS-2030 demonstrates robust performance for river water analysis, delivering accurate multi-element quantification in compliance with regulatory standards. Its collision system and cost-saving features make it well suited for routine water quality monitoring in environmental and drinking water laboratories.

Reference

• Ministerial ordinance on water quality standards, Ministry of Health Labour and Welfare ordinance No 101, May 30, 2003; revised Feb 28, 2014
• Methods determined by Minister of Health Labour and Welfare notification No 261, July 22, 2003; revised Mar 12, 2015