Agilent ICP-MS Journal (January 2013 – Issue 52)

Význam tématu

The latest developments in ICP-MS instrumentation and software expand the capabilities for trace level elemental analysis across industries including semiconductor manufacturing, mineral exploration, environmental monitoring, and pharmaceutical quality control. Upgraded data acquisition modes and reaction cell technologies address long-standing interferences, enabling measurements down to sub-ppt and even ppq levels. Integrated LC control and compliance features support regulated laboratory workflows.

Cíle a přehled článku

This journal issue reviews the Agilent ICP-MS MassHunter software revision G7201B rev B.01.02 for the 7700 Series and 8800 Triple Quadrupole ICP-MS, highlights a user profile of the CODES LA-ICP-MS facility for mineral research, describes ultratrace calcium measurements in ultra-pure water using ICP-QQQ in MS/MS mode, reports on a practical workshop and product demonstrations, and announces the 2013 Plasma Prize winner and forthcoming Agilent events.

Použitá metodika a instrumentace

• Agilent 7700 Series ICP-MS and 8800 Triple Quadrupole ICP-MS mainframes with cool plasma and MS/MS modes
• ICP-MS MassHunter software revision G7201B rev B.01.02 with fast time-resolved analysis, expanded LC module control, User Tune and Global Tune, and Spectroscopy Database Administrator integration
• Sample introduction systems including quartz torch, PFA nebulizer, TCC, Cap-LC pump, low-flow ALS and branch LC/UV integration
• LA-ICP-MS instrumentation at CODES: Agilent 7500a, 7500cx, 7700s ICP-MS coupled to Resonetics RESOlution S-155, NewWave UP213 and UP193ss laser ablation probes with in-house ablation cells
• Method for ultratrace Ca measurement: single quadrupole and MS/MS modes with H2 reaction gas, quantification by standard additions

Hlavní výsledky a diskuse

• Software revision supports MS/MS precursor/product scans, mass shift modes, fast TRA acquisition at 3 ms dwell time, improving detection of nanoparticles
• MS/MS mode on the 8800 ICP-QQQ reduced the calcium background equivalent concentration from 6.8 ppt (single quadrupole mode) to 1.4 ppt (MS/MS without gas) and to 0.041 ppt (with 1 mL/min H2)
• CODES secured A$2.5 million to expand LA-ICP-MS capabilities for mineral exploration, including development of calibration standards and quantitative mapping algorithms
• Ultratrace Ca analysis in UPW achieved ppq-level detection, demonstrating elimination of NO+ interference via MS/MS filtering of plasma ions
• Workshop attendees valued hands-on access to the 8800 ICP-QQQ, MS/MS discussions and real-world application presentations

Přínosy a praktické využití metody

ICP-QQQ MS/MS mode enables elimination of isobaric and polyatomic interferences without high gas flows, improving sensitivity and accuracy for trace and ultra-trace element analysis in challenging matrices such as ultra-pure water, organic solvents, and geological samples. Integrated software tools streamline method development, tuning, compliance, and multi-batch analysis in regulated and research laboratories.

Budoucí trendy a možnosti využití

• Broader adoption of triple quadrupole ICP-MS with MS/MS for routine sub-ppt to ppq analyses
• Enhanced quantitative imaging workflows in LA-ICP-MS using user-friendly calibration protocols
• Deeper integration of chromatography and mass spectrometry through unified software control
• Expansion of ultra-clean laboratory environments and cleanroom sample processing for trace metal research
• Continued development of database management for regulatory compliance and streamlined laboratory informatics

Závěr

The articles in this issue demonstrate significant advances in ICP-MS technology and methodology. Upgraded software and hardware elements deliver unprecedented detection limits, robust interference removal, and streamlined workflows. These developments promote new applications from semiconductor quality control to mineral exploration imaging and underpin future growth in analytical chemistry.

Reference

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