Success in ICP-MS analysis: Method optimization, maintenance, and troubleshooting tips and tricks

Innovations in ICP-MS instrumentation improve robustness, performance, and ease of use, however, obtaining accurate results and addressing sample failures are challenges that cannot be addressed through innovation alone.

Reducing systematic errors and streamlining workflow processes are part of the equation in figuring out how to obtain accuracy and achieving productivity goals. The other part of the equation is developing an optimized analytical method and analyzing data to identify troubleshooting and maintenance measures.

In Part 4 of this webinar series, tips and tricks for method development and daily operation will be discussed including the following topics for successful day-to-day operation of the ICP-MS:

• Instrument tuning, performance report analysis, and measures to address failed performance specifications

• Pre-analysis inspection routines

• Method optimization with example applications for environmental and industrial samples

• Data analysis and troubleshooting failed results

• Preventive and routine maintenance

Key learning objectives

• Learn about new software features for easy instrument tuning according to the sample matrices.

• How to address failures in performance report specifications prior to analysis to avoid sample failures.

• Pre-analysis inspection routines to ensure successful analysis.

• How to develop an optimized method including operating parameters, QC protocol, and interference correction techniques.

• Troubleshoot failed sample results and performing routine and preventive maintenance.

Who should attend

• Laboratories performing trace elemental analyses by ICP-MS, ICP-OES, and AAS.

• Laboratories starting up or looking to bring ICP-MS analysis in-house.

• Analysts seeking information on method development, optimizing instrument configuration and operating parameters.

• Analysts evaluating data and seeking measures to troubleshoot failed sample results.

• Analysts seeking tips and tricks for routine and preemptive maintenance to prevent sample failures and reruns.

Presenter: Sabrina Antonio (Regional Marketing Manager, Trace Elemental Analysis and Inorganic Mass Spectrometry, Thermo Fisher Scientific)

Sabrina’s extensive background includes senior chemical engineer and project manager at electric utilities, application specialist for atomic spectroscopy, and lead auditor for the US EPA Contract Laboratory Program (CLP) inorganic statement of work. She joined Thermo Fisher Scientific in 2015 as a technical sales specialist before becoming regional marketing manager for the trace elemental analysis product line in 2018.

Presenter: John Schmelzel (Staff Scienticist, Trace Elemental Analysis, Thermo Fisher Scientific)

John Schmelzel is a Staff Scientist at Thermo Fisher Scientific responsible for ICP-OES ICP-MS and Atomic Absorption. He graduated from the University of Colorado Boulder and has been with Thermo Fisher Scientific for nearly 35 years supporting customers and developing the technology.