Agilent ICP-MS Journal (August 2013 – Issue 54)

Importance of the topic

Advances in ICP-MS software, speciation methods, instrument maintenance and nanoparticle characterization are critical for laboratories engaged in environmental monitoring, pharmaceutical quality control and emerging nanotechnology research. Together these developments enhance data integrity, analytical accuracy and operational efficiency across regulated and research settings.

Objectives and overview

This issue presents four key developments: the new revision of Agilent MassHunter ICP-MS software with enhanced compliance and preset pharmacopeia methods; a novel HPLC-ICP-MS approach for speciation of aluminum fluoride complexes in environmental samples; a practical torch-cleaning protocol; and insights into nanoparticle analysis through webinars and single-particle ICP-MS (SP-ICP-MS).

Methodology and instrumentation

• Agilent 7700 Series ICP-MS and 8800 ICP-QQQ with MassHunter software (rev. B.01.03)
• OpenLAB Data Store, SDA and OpenLAB ECM compliance modules
• HPLC–ICP-MS using Dionex IonPac CS5A/CG5A columns with post-column addition of 5% HNO₃
• Simple torch-cleaning bath (90% isopropanol, 7% deionized water, 3% NaOH)
• Single-particle ICP-MS in time-resolved acquisition mode for metal nanoparticle sizing

Main results and discussion

• Software revision B.01.03 integrates with Agilent OpenLAB Data Store, SDA and ECM, adds a USP<232>/<233> preset method for elemental impurities, supports GC 7890B, LC autosampler injector programs and new reporting options.
• The HPLC-ICP-MS speciation method achieved baseline separation of AlF₂⁺, AlF₃, AlF₄⁻ and Al³⁺ in soil-water extracts and groundwater, with a 4-minute analysis cycle and reliable quantification based on post-column acidification.
• The torch-cleaning formula effectively restores quartz torch performance without mechanical scrubbing, offering a reusable, low-cost maintenance step.
• Webinars demonstrated regulatory definitions of nanomaterials, compliance requirements, FFF-ICP-MS and SP-ICP-MS techniques. SP-ICP-MS resolved mixed 30 nm and 60 nm gold nanoparticles, confirming the ability to count, size and quantify individual particles.

Benefits and practical applications

• Enhanced software compliance simplifies 21 CFR Part 11 and USP requirements for pharma and QC laboratories.
• Fast, reliable speciation of aluminum complexes supports environmental risk assessment and water quality monitoring.
• Effective torch maintenance prolongs component life and reduces downtime.
• SP-ICP-MS and FFF-ICP-MS provide robust nanoparticle characterization for material science, toxicology studies and regulatory testing.

Future trends and applications

• Broader adoption of triple quadrupole ICP-MS for interference-free elemental analysis.
• Integration of FFF and other separation techniques with SP-ICP-MS for complex sample matrices.
• Development of standardized protocols for nanoparticle analysis and regulatory harmonization.
• Online training and workshops to disseminate advanced ICP-MS methodologies.

Conclusion

The combined software enhancements, speciation protocols, maintenance tips and nanoparticle analytics strengthen the capabilities of ICP-MS laboratories to meet evolving regulatory and research challenges. Continued innovation in hardware, software and methodology will drive accuracy, compliance and versatility in elemental and nanoparticle analysis.

Used instrumentation

• Agilent 7700 Series ICP-MS
• Agilent 8800 ICP-QQQ
• Agilent 1100 Series HPLC system (Dionex IonPac CS5A/CG5A columns)
• Postnova Analytics FFF system
• Agilent ASX-520 autosampler

References

1. USP General Chapters <232>/<233>, United States Pharmacopeia, 2013.
2. Frankowski M., Zioła-Frankowska A., Siepak J., Talanta, 80 (2010) 2120–2126.
3. Frankowski M., Zioła-Frankowska A., Siepak J., Microchim. J., 95 (2010) 366–372.
4. Degueldre S., Favarger P.-Y., Bitea C., Anal. Chim. Acta, 518 (2004) 137–142.