Thermo Scientific Element 2 & Element XR High Resolution ICP-MS

Importance of the topic

Multi-element trace analysis and accurate isotope ratio determination are essential across environmental, geochemical, semiconductor and materials research. High-resolution ICP-MS addresses spectral interferences that limit conventional quadrupole ICP-MS, enabling confident quantification in complex matrices without extensive sample preparation.

Study objectives and overview

This paper introduces the Thermo Scientific Element 2 and Element XR high-resolution sector-field ICP-MS platforms, demonstrating their ability to resolve mass spectral overlaps, extend dynamic range, and simplify multi-element and isotope analyses for routine and advanced applications.

Methodology and instrumentation

High mass resolution (R up to 10 000) achieved by sector-field optics separates analyte peaks from polyatomic overlaps (e.g., As 75 vs ArCl). The instruments employ:

• Element 2 and Element XR HR-ICP-MS with double-focusing magnetic sector
• High-performance ion detection combining SEM and Faraday collectors
• Jet Interface with platinum-tipped cones for sub-ppt sensitivity
• Coupling options: HPLC, UHPLC, GC (heated transfer line), IC, laser ablation with split-stream to Neptune Plus and iCAP RQ
• Optional glove box adaptation

Main results and discussion

High-resolution mode unequivocally resolves challenging overlaps (e.g., As in chloride matrices, selenium, oxide/argide interferences) and yields clean spectra across the periodic table. Element XR extends the dynamic range by three orders of magnitude, facilitating analysis from pg/L to mg/L without dilution. Analytical examples include:

• Geochemical ultra-trace REE distributions revealing anthropogenic Gd signals in pore waters
• Zircon U-Pb age dating and Lu-Hf isotopic analysis via laser ablation split stream
• Speciation of Sn, As, Se, Cr, P, S by LC-ICP-MS
• Nanoparticle sizing (Au, Ag, TiO2) at 20 nm level with single-particle ICP-MS
• Semiconductor-grade chemical purity control with detection limits <0.1 ng/L

Benefits and practical applications

High-resolution ICP-MS offers:

• Simplified workflows without reactive gases or matrix-matched standards
• Robust, routine operation for QA/QC and 24/7 production monitoring
• High precision isotope ratios even for low-abundance nuclides
• Flexibility to handle diverse sample types: waters, acids, solvents, solids, thin films

Future trends and opportunities

Emerging applications include high-throughput environmental monitoring, advanced materials characterization, single-cell and subcellular analysis, and integration with automated sample handling. Progress in detector technology and increased mass resolution will further improve sensitivity, selectivity and data quality in omics and nanoanalytics.

Conclusion

The Thermo Scientific Element series HR-ICP-MS platforms deliver unparalleled interference removal, sensitivity and dynamic range, streamlining complex analyses across academia and industry. Their robust design and versatile coupling options support a broad scope of applications, from trace elemental profiling to precise isotope geochemistry.

Applied Instrumentation

• Thermo Scientific Element 2 HR-ICP-MS
• Thermo Scientific Element XR HR-ICP-MS
• Neptune Plus multicollector ICP-MS
• iCAP RQ ICP-MS
• Jet Interface with platinum-tipped cones
• GCI-200 GC-ICP-MS interface
• Dual-mode SEM and Faraday detectors
• Glove box adaptation

References

1. Paffrath R., Pahnke K., Schnetger B., Brumsack H.-J. Rare earth element behavior in a sandy subterranean estuary of the North Sea (manuscript in preparation).