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Collection of Atomic Spectroscopy Resources Home

kristen.sensabaugh — Tue, 04 May 2021 17:45:15 GMT

Current Revision posted to Wiki by kristen.sensabaugh on 5/4/2021 5:45:15 PM

Explore the Collection of Atomic Spectroscopy Resources!

Collection of AAS & MP-AES Resources - Wiki - Atomic Spectroscopy - Agilent Community

Collection of ICPMS Resources - Wiki - Atomic Spectroscopy - Agilent Community

Collection of ICP-OES Resources - Wiki - Atomic Spectroscopy - Agilent Community

Tags: Atomic Spectroscopy User Manuals

Collection of AAS & MP-AES Resources

kristen.sensabaugh — Tue, 04 May 2021 17:42:37 GMT

Current Revision posted to Wiki by kristen.sensabaugh on 5/4/2021 5:42:37 PM

Here is a "best of" collection of links to manuals and tools for Atomic Spectroscopy Products AAS and MP-AES. For other instruments refer to Collection of Support Documents

Collection of AAS & MP-AES Resources

AAS

Resource Page

Technical Overview

Hollow Cathode Lamp Troubleshooting video

Flame atomic absorption Troubleshooting video

Graphite furnace Troubleshooting video

AA 240/280 (Including Zeeman) Users Guide

Troubleshooting Guide - Preventing QC Failures

50/55 Users Guide

AA Systems Site Prep Guide

Sample Introduction Pump System (SIPS) Users Guide

UltrAA Lamp Users Guide

MP-AES

4100 Site Prep Checklist

Tags: AA, MPAES

ICP-MS Active Cleaning

kristen.sensabaugh — Tue, 04 May 2021 17:42:37 GMT

Current Revision posted to Wiki by kristen.sensabaugh on 5/4/2021 5:42:37 PM

Agilent Support Insights

This Information Applies To: All Agilent ICP-MS Systems

Issue:

Some samples may contain "Sticky" elements that take a long time to leave the system. After cleaning all glassware in the Sample Introduction System as per the maintenance DVD, an extra Active Clean can be performed.

Resolution:

Use appropriate PPE when working with strong acids

When “sticky” elements (Tl, Sb, Th, Ag…) are taking too long to rinse out, replace autosampler probe and all other tubing leading up to the nebulizer.

Option 1 to clean the system: with the plasma off, remove Teflon line from back of nebulizer and hang in a beaker. With all of the sample introduction lines hooked up, move the autosampler probe into 50 ml vials of each of the following solutions:
- ~30% NH4OH (30 min with peri at 0.3 rps)
- ~30% HCl (30 min with peri at 0.3 rps)
- ~30% HNO3 (30 min with peri at 0.3 rps)
- De-ionized (a few minutes at 0.3 rps)
Let each of these solutions flow through the whole sample flow path. You might have to change the Tygon tubing after doing this.

Make sure you empty the 30% NH4OH from beaker before going to acid soluitons

Option 2 to clean the system: Clean the probe rinse port by removal then soaking or actively pumping for 15 minutes for each step using the ALS peristaltic pump using the following solutions:
- MeOH or IPA to remove greasiness
- De-ionized Water
- Hot 2% Citrinox Solution
- De-ionized Water
- ~30% NH4OH
- ~30% HCl
- ~30% HNO3
- De-ionized Water

Additional Cleaning Solutions (used in the Semiconductor industry). Use one or both of the following solutions, either as a rinse or for periodic cleaning

Learn more on how to effectively operate your Agilent ICP-MS Systems:

ICPMS-0GEN-1010e - Agilent ICP-MS with MassHunter: An Introduction to ICP-MS e-Learning course on Agilent University

ICPMS-0GEN-1030e - Agilent ICP-MS with MassHunter: Analysis Considerations e-Learning course on Agilent University

Keywords: Relative Standard Deviation, RSD, memory, contamination, ICPMS, sq, qqq, 7500, 7700, 7800, 7900, 8800, 8900

Tags: 7900, 7700, 7800, SQ, 7500, ICPMS, 8800, 8900, Agilent Support Insights

Troubleshooting and Maintenance of AA Systems: Part 2B- Flame Optimization

kristen.sensabaugh — Tue, 04 May 2021 17:42:37 GMT

Current Revision posted to Wiki by kristen.sensabaugh on 5/4/2021 5:42:37 PM

Agilent Support Insights

This Information Applies To: All Agilent Flame AA Systems- 55B, 240FS, 280FS

Issue:

After cleaning and re-installing the flame atomic absorption system components, it is important to optimize the burner position, nebulizer uptake rate, flame conditions, glass impact bead, and mixing paddles. Proper optimization ensures that the atomic absorption system will yield accurate and precise results throughout its lifetime.

Steps to follow:

1. Optimize the burner position vertically, horizontally, and rotationally using the burner alignment card, as shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1. Optimization with the burner alignment card.

2. Attach the plastic capillary tubing to the nebulizer. Wind the nebulizer locking thimble and locking ring clockwise, as far as they go.

3. To determine the nebulizer uptake rate, ignite the flame, and aspirate distilled water from a small graduated cylinder over a one minute time period. Adjust the locking thimble until the uptake rate is between 5-6 mL per minute (ml/min), as shown in Figure 2. Then tighten the locking ring (behind the locking thimble).

Figure 2. Optimizing the nebulizer uptake rate.

4. Go to the worksheet window and click the optimize button. Select or develop a Cu method to use for optimization. When the hollow cathode lamp has completed its peaking procedure, click "Optimize Signal" and then do an "Instrument Zero" while still aspirating distilled water, as shown in Figure 3.

Figure 3. Optimize signal and instrument zero.

5. Aspirate a 5 ppm Cu solution. Optimize the burner position vertically, horizontally, and rotationally, as shown in Figure 4, and the flame conditions to yield the highest signal. Then adjust the glass impact bead position to achieve the maximum signal and minimum noise. Remember to turn the adjustment screw counterclockwise. Close the optimization window by clicking "OK".

Figure 4. Optimize the burner position.

6. For most flame AA applications, the mixing paddles should be fitted in the spray chamber, and the glass impact bead should be adjusted for best sensitivity. If you have more difficult samples to run, such as high % total dissolved solids (TDS), ensure that the mixing paddles are in place inside the spray chamber. Adjust the impact bead at least half a turn clockwise from the optimum sensitivity position. This will give better performance with difficult sample types.

Learn more on how to effectively maintain and troubleshoot your Atomic Absorption Spectrometer: 240/280 User's Guide

For more information, see the following video: Troubleshooting and Maintenance of Atomic Absorption Systems: Part 2- Flame Atomic Absorption

Also see the other articles in this series: Troubleshooting and Maintenance of AA Systems: Part 1-Hollow Cathode Lamps and Troubleshooting and Maintenance of AA Systems: Part 2A- Cleaning Flame AA Components

Keywords: flame atomic absorption, 55B, 240FS, 280FS, nebulizer uptake rate, spray chamber, mixing paddles, impact bead

Tags: 55B, 240, 280, Agilent Support Insights, AA

How to Resolve SpectrAA Software Issues due to Adobe Flash Failure

kristen.sensabaugh — Tue, 04 May 2021 17:42:37 GMT

Current Revision posted to Wiki by kristen.sensabaugh on 5/4/2021 5:42:37 PM

Agilent Support Insights

This Information Applies To: All Agilent AA systems with SpectrAA Software 5.x

Issue:

Following Adobe Flash going out of support as of 31 December 2020, Adobe has disabled the flash player
as of 12 January 2021. SpectrAA uses flash for the start screen.

This procedure outlines the steps to resolve SpectrAA locking up on initialization due to Adobe Flash Failure.

Steps to Follow:

The SpectrAA configuration can be changed to prevent the execution of Adobe Flash content using a text editor. However, as this configuration file is normally protected, the text editor must be run using
administrator privileges. To do this procedure, first type “notepad” into the search box on the Windows taskbar:

Click the down arrow to show more options for opening the notepad text editor and click “Run as administrator”:

From within the notepad text editor, click File and then Open:

Navigate within the Open dialog to the location:
C:\Program Files(x86)\Agilent\SP100\Run\HELP (if running 64-bit version of Windows) or C:\ Program Files\Agilent\SP100\Run\HELP (if running 32-bit version of Windows)

Click the drop-down to change from showing Text Documents (*.txt) to All Files (*.*).

Open the file IndexPage.ini. Change the line SWF=Yes in this document to read SWF=No.

Click File and then Save. Close the Notepad text editor. When next started, the SpectrAA application will revert to using the non-Adobe Flash application window.

Tags: SpectrAA, Adobe Flash, AA

Collection of ICP-OES Resources

kristen.sensabaugh — Tue, 04 May 2021 17:42:37 GMT

Current Revision posted to Wiki by kristen.sensabaugh on 5/4/2021 5:42:37 PM

Here is a "best of" collection of links to manuals and tools for ICP-OES on Agilent.com, for other instruments refer to Collection of Support Documents on Agilent.com.

Tags: spectroscopy, ICP, ICPOES, 5110

Collection of Atomic Spectroscopy Resources Home

kristen.sensabaugh — Tue, 04 May 2021 17:42:37 GMT

Revision 1 posted to Wiki by kristen.sensabaugh on 5/4/2021 5:42:37 PM

Link 1

Link 2

Troubleshooting and Maintenance of AA Systems: Part 2A- Cleaning Flame AA Components

kristen.sensabaugh — Tue, 04 May 2021 17:42:37 GMT

Current Revision posted to Wiki by kristen.sensabaugh on 5/4/2021 5:42:37 PM

Agilent Support Insights

This Information Applies To: All Agilent Flame AA Systems: e.g., 55B, 240FS, 280FS

Issue:

It is important to maintain your flame atomic absorption system and clean when necessary, to keep your AA instrument in good working order. This practice will lead to the best results and will also reduce downtime. This document focuses on cleaning and maintaining the components of your Flame AA system including the burner, nebulizer, and spray chamber. It is based on the Mark VII atomization system, which is used with all current Agilent AA instruments. However, the tips and practices included within this document also apply to the atomization systems of earlier models.

Disassembling and Cleaning the Spray Chamber:

1. Remove the chimney and flame shield.

2. Remove the burner by lifting it upwards and slightly twisting.

Safety Warning: Extinguish the flame and ensure that the burner is cool before removing it.

3. Loosen both of the spray chamber retaining screws. Pull the complete spray chamber sideways until it is clear of the mounting and remove from the instrument. Tilt it sideways so that the liquid inside drains to the waste vessel, then detach the drain tubing from the liquid trap.

4. Remove the liquid trap by holding the nebulizer/spray chamber assembly firmly with one hand, while twisting the liquid trap in a clockwise direction to unlock it, as shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1. Twist the liquid trap clockwise to unlock and remove it.

5. Unscrew the plastic drain tube from the bottom of the nebulizer block.

6. Separate the nebulizer block and spray chamber by holding the nebulizer block firmly in one hand, while twisting the spray chamber in a counterclockwise direction to remove it.

7. Pull the pressure relief bung from the rear of the spray chamber.

8. Carefully remove the twin-headed mixing paddles through the rear end of the spray chamber.

9. Wash the spray chamber, liquid trap, pressure relief bung, drain tube, and mixing paddles thoroughly in laboratory detergent and warm water. Use a bottle brush to clean the inside the components. Rinse all parts thoroughly with distilled water and then leave the components to air dry.

Cleaning the Burner:

1. To clean the burner, you need to polish the inside of the burner slot. It is recommended to use a metal cleaning polish that is suitable for cleaning brass.

2. Insert the burner cleaning card into the burner slot and pour a small amount of the cleaning polish on each end of the card. Slide the card in and out of the burner slot several times to remove any deposits that may be present, as shown in Figure 2. The more you polish the burner, the better it is going to perform. You will get much better performance and much better resistance to blockage if you have a clean and well-polished burner.

Figure 2. Cleaning the burner slot with metal cleaning polish.

3. Rinse with distilled water, and place the burner inverted in an ultrasonic bath containing dilute laboratory detergent, for approximately 10 minutes.

4. Dry the burner, using an air or nitrogen purge before refitting or using the burner.

5. If there are stubborn deposits on the burner slot, you can soak the burner in a dilute nitric acid solution, then rinse the burner with de-ionized water and polish again before use.

Removing and Cleaning the Nebulizer Components:

1. Unscrew and remove the capillary adjuster thimble and locking ring. Fit the recessed end of the nebulizer tool over the capillary assembly and unscrew. Then carefully remove the components from the body, as shown in Figure 3.

Figure 3. Removing the capillary assembly and nebulizer components.

2. Before removing the venturi, loosen the clamping screw securing the impact bead in the adjustor block, and move the bead to the side.

3. Push the venturi out of the spray chamber body from the inside, using the nebulizer tool.

4. Place the nebulizer components in an ultrasonic bath containing a dilute detergent solution, and sonicate for 5-10 minutes. Rinse the nebulizer in distilled water, then allow to dry.

Reassembling the Nebulizer and Refitting the Spray Chamber:

1. Place the venturi into the nebulizer block and use the nebulizer tool to place it into position, as shown in Figure 4. Carefully insert the capillary assembly, O-ring end first, through the spring in the nebulizer body.

Figure 4. Placing the venturi into the nebulizer block.

2. Place the capillary guide into the nebulizer body.

3. Carefully guide the locking thimble over the capillary and screw it in place.

4. Push the impact bead into the nebulizer block, and position it so that the gap between the bead and the nebulizer venturi is about the thickness of a piece of paper. Carefully tighten the impact bead locking screw. Turn the impact bead adjuster counterclockwise until the bead appears midway in the cut-out of the nebulizer block.

5. Insert the mixing paddles into the rear opening of the spray chamber. Align the mixing paddles so that an opening between any 2 of the blades is at the bottom. Check that the paddles are still positioned correctly, and then push the paddles back into the spray chamber, until stopped by the shoulder.

6. Rinse the O-ring of the pressure relief bung with distilled water, and then refit the bung into the spray chamber until it is seated in place. Check that the O-ring is in position in the recess of the nebulizer block, and then connect the other end of the spray chamber to the nebulizer block. Use a clockwise, twisting motion to lock the spray chamber in position. Screw the drain tube, with the integrated float, into the bottom of the nebulizer block. Insert the float into the liquid trap, and secure the trap using a counterclockwise twisting motion to engage the bayonet fitting. Place the spray chamber and nebulizer assembly in position in the sample compartment, so that the fuel and oxidant outlet nipples are engaged correctly in the ports of the nebulizer block. Push the assembly firmly sideways and tighten the retaining screws. Refit the drain tubing to the waste container. Fill the liquid trap with distilled water through the opening for the burner until the liquid just overflows from the lower outlet of the liquid trap.

7. Refit the burner and ensure it is in position. Optimize the burner position vertically, horizontally, and rotationally using the burner alignment card.

8. Refit the flame shield and chimney.

Learn more on how to effectively maintain and troubleshoot your Atomic Absorption Spectrometer: Agilent 240/280 User's Guide

For more information, see the following video: Troubleshooting and Maintenance of Atomic Absorption Systems: Part 2 - Flame Atomic Absorption

Keywords: atomic absorption, 55B, 240FS, 280FS, nebulizer venturi, spray chamber

Tags: 55B, 240, 280, Agilent Support Insights, spray chamber, AA, nebulizer

ICPMSD Cone Conditioning Procedure

kristen.sensabaugh — Tue, 04 May 2021 17:42:37 GMT

Current Revision posted to Wiki by kristen.sensabaugh on 5/4/2021 5:42:37 PM

For users of ICPMSD, after general maintenance and cleaning of the sample and skimmer cones a simple conditioning procedure is recommended for a quicker return to stability of counts.

Attachments:

community.agilent.com/.../Cone_5F00_conditioning-procedure.doc

Cone_conditioning procedure.doc

Tags: 7900, 7700, 7800, ICPMS consumables, 7500, ICPMS, 8800, 8900, Sample Introduction

Maintaining the Axial Pre-Optic Window

kristen.sensabaugh — Tue, 04 May 2021 17:42:37 GMT

Current Revision posted to Wiki by kristen.sensabaugh on 5/4/2021 5:42:37 PM

Agilent Support Insights

This Information Applies To: Agilent 5100, 5110, 5800, 5900 ICPOES

Issue:

The axial pre-optic window needs to be checked from time to time to ensure it is clean.

Analysis:

If the axial pre-optic window is dirty, it must be cleaned or replaced to ensure adequate sensitivity in the UV region of the emission spectrum. If the axial wavelength calibration fails for wavelengths less than 190nm, this may indicate that the axial pre-optic window is dirty.

Resolution:

Follow the steps below to clean or replace the axial pre-optic window:

Always turn off your instrument before attempting to remove the window and do not operate the instrument while the window is removed.

Hot Surface
The torch compartment and components in it become extremely hot during instrument operation and remain hot for some time after the instrument has been switched off. Allow the torch compartment to cool for at least five minutes before attempting to remove any component. Use heat-resistant gloves.

To remove the axial pre-optic window assembly:

Remove the torch and snout. See Figure 1.

Figure 1. Torch Compartment

1. Axial pre-optic window assembly

2. Cone

3. Cone thumb screws

4. Snout

5. Radial pre-optic window assembly

6. RF coil

7. Torch

Remove the three cone thumb screws.
Pull the Cone down from the assembly.
Gently pull down on the axial pre-optic window assembly.
Tilt the top of the assembly towards the back and then slide it to the right to remove from the torch compartment. See Figure 2.

Figure 2. Removing the axial pre-optic window assembly

Check the axial pre-optic window, and replace or clean as needed.
- To clean the pre-optic window, follow these next steps:
  - Soak the optics window in a dilute 5% v/v laboratory detergent for 30 minutes.
  - Thoroughly rinse with de-ionized water.
  - If the contamination is not removed, soak the pre-optics window in dilute 5% v/v nitric acid for 1 hour.
  - Thoroughly rinse with de-ionized water.
  - Rinse with clean, reagent grade isopropyl alcohol 2-propanol .
  - Dry the pre-optics window using one of the following options:
    - Air dry at room temperature
    - Dry in a drying oven set between 40–80 °C 104–176 °
    - Use a clean, filtered compressed gas such as argon, nitrogen or compressed air.

Do not use hydrofluoric acid to clean the pre-optics window.

Always wear gloves when handling the pre-optics window. Avoid touching the faces of the window. Handle the pre-optics window by the edges only. Avoid wiping the faces of the window to prevent scratching the window.

Chemical hazard: The cleaning procedure may involve the use of corrosive or other hazardous chemicals. Many acids, including nitric acid, are corrosive and can cause severe burns when they come into contact with the skin. It is essential that appropriate protective clothing be worn at all times when handling all chemicals. If acid contacts the skin, wash off with copious amounts of water and seek medical attention immediately.

To install the axial pre-optic window assembly:

Tilt the top of the axial pre-optic window assembly towards the back of the instrument and then slide it up into the housing. See Figure 3.

Figure 3. Installing the Axial Pre-optic Window Assembly

Do not hit the RF coil.

You must replace the axial pre-optic window assembly before fitting the cone. The cone will not fit properly if the axial pre-optic window assembly is not installed.

Align the holes in the assembly with the screws and then push the assembly in.
Install the cone onto the assembly.
Tighten the three thumb screws firmly by hand.

Learn more on how to effectively troubleshoot your ICPOES:

ICPOES-5110-1270e - Agilent 5110 ICP-OES Maintenance and Troubleshooting e-Learning course on Agilent University

Keywords: ICPOES maintenance, 5100, 5110, 5800, 5900, axial pre-optic window

Tags: ICPOES, 5900, 5800, ICPOES maintenance, 5100, 5110, axial pre-optic window, Agilent Support Insights

Troubleshooting and Maintenance of AA Systems: Part 1 - Hollow Cathode Lamps

kristen.sensabaugh — Tue, 04 May 2021 17:42:37 GMT

Current Revision posted to Wiki by kristen.sensabaugh on 5/4/2021 5:42:37 PM

Agilent Support Insights

This Information Applies To: All Agilent AA systems: 55B, 240FS, 280FS, 240Z, 280Z

Issue:

It is important to maintain your atomic absorption system and troubleshoot when necessary, to keep your AA instrument in good working order. This practice will lead to the best results and reduce downtime.

Analysis:

Agilent hollow cathode lamps are available as either coded or uncoded. Uncoded lamps provide the best cost value and fit most AA spectrometers. Coded lamps have extra pins in the base of the lamp, which provide an extra lamp recognition circuit. Once inserted into the spectrometer, the software automatically recognizes the type of lamp and its position.

For better sensitivity, and lower detection limits, Agilent offers special boosted discharge lamps called UltrAA lamps. They use the standard lamp current but apply an extra boost discharge within the lamp to increase the emission intensity. The boost current is supplied from a secondary control module, either integrated into the instrument, or supplied from an external module. Agilent UltrAA lamps lower detection limits for the most demanding applications.

A unique, often misunderstood feature of Agilent hollow cathode lamps is the black getter patch near the cathode. It is a thin layer of zirconium deposited inside the lamp during purification and processing. This thin film is highly reactive, and acts as an efficient scavenger of impurity gases such as oxygen and hydrogen. The film ensures extended lamp life and spectral purity throughout the lifetime of the lamp. You may also see that a film of the cathode material deposited inside the glass envelope of the lamp. This is also a result of the lamp purification process. The amount of material deposited varies, depending on the volatility of the cathode.

Steps to Follow:

Optimizing the lamp

Before installing the lamp, check the recommended operating current and wavelength, which is conveniently located on the label near the base of the lamp. Verify that they match the default selections in the software. Once the method has been set up, simply click the "Optimize" button from the Analysis page, and then click "OK" to optimize the lamp. Slowly rotate the lamp adjustment screws at the base of the lamp, while watching the lamp optimization bar and numerical display, as shown in Figure 1. Maximize the value. Generally, only small adjustments will need to be made.

Figure 1. Adjustment and Optimization of the Hollow Cathode Lamp

If the display goes off-scale, click "rescale" and continue optimizing, until the maximum value is obtained on the display.

If you have a flame instrument, and you enabled the background correction, you will see a second optimization bar for the deuterium background correction lamp. Simply rotate the deuterium lamp adjustment screws, located in the bottom left of the lamp compartment. Watch the optimization bar and numerical display and adjust the screws to achieve the maximum value, as shown in Figure 2.

Figure 2. Adjustment and Optimization of the deuterium lamp

Only minor adjustments will normally be required. Full realignment of the deuterium lamp is usually required when replacing the lamp only.

Helpful Tip: Make a note of the gain value the first time you optimize the lamp. Each time you use the lamp, the value should be close to the noted value. By monitoring the gain values, you can track the performance of the lamp. A significant change in the gain can indicate that the lamp is reaching the end of its operational life.

Learn more on how to effectively maintain and troubleshoot your Atomic Absorption Spectrometer: Agilent 240/280 User's Guide

For more information, please see the following video: Troubleshooting and Maintenance of Atomic Absorption Systems: Part 1- Hollow Cathode Lamps

Keywords: atomic absorption, 55B, 240FS, 240Z, 280FS, 280Z, hollow cathode lamp, deuterium lamp, lamp adjustment

Tags: 55B, 240, lamp adjustment, 280, Agilent Support Insights, hollow cathode lamp, deuterium lamp, AA

ICP-OES: How to Clean a Blocked Nebulizer

kristen.sensabaugh — Tue, 04 May 2021 17:42:37 GMT

Current Revision posted to Wiki by kristen.sensabaugh on 5/4/2021 5:42:37 PM

Agilent Support Insights

This Information Applies To: All Agilent ICP-OES instruments

Issue:

The glass concentric Seaspray nebulizer comes by default with the 5000 Series ICP-OES instruments. If running samples which contain high % total dissolved solids (TDS), it is important to first centrifuge or filter them through a 0.45 micron filter prior to running on the ICP-OES. If samples are not fully digested, concentric nebulizers can easily become blocked (partially or fully) by sample particles. Once you have performed the Nebulizer test, as detailed in ICP-OES: Checking for a Blocked Nebulizer, and have learned that your nebulizer may be blocked, this procedure details how to clean the nebulizer.

Steps to follow:

Before removing the nebulizer from the spray chamber, rinse with deionized water. Always wear appropriate safety equipment and follow all regulations for chemical use and disposal.

1. Turn off the plasma and peristaltic pump.

2. Remove the sample inlet line tubing (see Figure 1).

3. Remove the gas inlet fitting from the nebulizer side arm (see Figure 1).

Not all nebulizers are the same. Fittings will vary depending on the nebulizer.

Figure 1.

1. Sample inlet tubing

2. Gas inlet fitting

The concentric glass nebulizer is fragile and easily broken. Handle it with extreme care and ensure that the tip is protected from damage. Wear appropriate safety gloves and clothing.

4. Unscrew the white knurled nut, or gently twist the nebulizer depending on the nebulizer and spray chamber used to remove it from the spray chamber, being careful not to touch the tip of the nebulizer. See Figure 2:

Figure 2.

1. Torch loader handle

2. Torch

3. Torch Clamp

4. Nebulizer gas connections

5. Spray chamber drain tubing

6. Spray chamber

7. Nebulizer

8. Nebulizer sample tubing

5. Using a syringe or nebulizer cleaning tool, push water, methanol or rinse solution through the nebulizer in the reverse direction to normal flow. Either push liquid through using the nebulizer cleaning tool or pull it through with a syringe by placing the tip of the nebulizer in the solution and applying a vacuum to the sample inlet end. Rinse with deionized water.

6. If the blockage remains, push 25% detergent solution through the nebulizer with a nebulizer cleaning tool and then soak the nebulizer overnight. Rinse with deionized water.

Alternatively, apply gas pressure at the nebulizer orifice- for example, use the gas hose fitted to the side arm on the nebulizer to dislodge the blockage.

7. If the blockage is still present, soak the nebulizer overnight in concentrated nitric acid. Ensure that no air is trapped in the central capillary and that the nebulizer is completely submerged in the acid.

Before placing the nebulizer in concentrated nitric acid, use a Pasteur pipette to gently fill the central capillary with acid through the sample inlet of the nebulizer.

Nitric acid is very corrosive and can cause severe burns when it comes into contact with the skin. It is essential that appropriate protective clothing be worn at all times when handling acids. If acid contacts the skin, wash off with copious amounts of water and seek medical attention immediately.

8. Rinse well with water and allow to dry before use.

9. Reconnect the gas tubing and the sample tubing to the nebulizer.

Do not place a glass nebulizer in an ultrasonic bath. Ultrasonic vibrations may cause edge chipping or cracking and degrade the performance of the nebulizer.

Learn more on how to effectively troubleshoot your ICP-OES:

ICPOES-5110-1270e - Agilent 5110 ICP-OES Maintenance and Troubleshooting e-Learning course on Agilent University

Keywords: nebulizer blockage, 700 Series ICP-OES, 5000 Series ICP-OES, Seaspray

Tags: ICPOES, 5900, 5800, 5100, 5110, Agilent Support Insights, seaspray

Basic Identification of Gas Box Type in AAS instrument for New Customers

kristen.sensabaugh — Tue, 04 May 2021 17:42:37 GMT

Current Revision posted to Wiki by kristen.sensabaugh on 5/4/2021 5:42:37 PM

Hi Reader,

Although All Agilent Atomic spectroscopy trained CEs would be knowing about how to identify Gas box type in AAS instrument. Here The attached PPT or image can be shared with Customers. This will help all remote Engineer to gather basic details about Gas Box.

PGCU Vs AGCU.

Mere identification by customer help remote engineer to predict parts properly while doing Technical Call Qualification.

**one basic difference is to check Acetylene Gas Control knob which is available with AGCU only.**

Attachments:

community.agilent.com/.../Gas-Box-Type_2D00_-AAS.pptx

Gas Box Type- AAS.pptx

Tags: AA

Collection of ICPMS Resources

kristen.sensabaugh — Tue, 04 May 2021 17:42:37 GMT

Current Revision posted to Wiki by kristen.sensabaugh on 5/4/2021 5:42:37 PM

Here is a "best of" collection of links to manuals and tools for ICPMS on Agilent.com, for other instruments refer to Collection of Support Documents on Agilent.com.

ICPMS Hardware Troubleshooting & Maintenance
ICPMS Application Resources
ICPMS Catalogs and Ordering

ICPMS Hardware Troubleshooting & Maintenance

Technical overview

Agilent ICP-MS Ressource Library

Troubleshooting tool for ICP-MS sensitivity

ICP-MS Interactive Troubleshooting tool for high background problems

ICP/MS Maintenance Tips and Tricks

7800/7900 Site Prep Checklist

ICP-MS Troubleshooting video Part 1

ICP-MS Troubleshooting video Part 2

ICP-MS Troubleshooting video Part 3

ICP-MS Troubleshooting video Part 4

ICPMS Application Resources

Resource Page

ICP/MS Environmental Application Compendium

Primer: Agilent 8800 ICP-QQQ Application Handbook

Handbook of Hyphenated ICP-MS Applications (Speciation Handbook)

Atomic Spectroscopy Solutionsfor Environmental Applications

On-line isotope dilution analysis withh 7700 Series

Proposed new ICH and USP methods for elemental impurities: The application of ICP-MS and ICP-OES for pharmaceutical analysis

ICPMS Catalogs and Ordering

Agilent Collection of Columns, Supplies, and Standards Resources

ICP-MS Systems on Agilent.com

ICP-MS Accessories on Agilent.com

ICP-MS Supplies on Agilent.com

Atomic Spectroscopy Data Systems on Agilent.com

Atomic and Molecular Spectroscopy Supplies on Agilent.com

Instructions for Long-term shut down of ICP-MS instruments

kristen.sensabaugh — Tue, 04 May 2021 17:42:36 GMT

Current Revision posted to Wiki by kristen.sensabaugh on 5/4/2021 5:42:36 PM

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 issue and possibility that your ICPMS instrument needs to be shut down for a lengthy period of time here is a procedure to follow:

written by Carla Riboczi

ICPMS Shut Down Procedure

The plasma needs to be off.

The Mass Hunter Software needs to be closed, to do that properly use the File at top left, save and Exit there. Then close any other programs that may be opened. And Turn Off the computer totally and leave off for now.

Please turn off the Front Power button, the green LED light should go off.

Wait for 3 minutes.

Then reach around to the back of the instrument and shut off the double rocker main power switch in the back to the down position.

Be sure gases, exhaust and cooling water flow are all turned off if leaving the instrument off for any length of time.

Then to restart the instrument again:

Begin by turning that double rocker power switch behind the instrument to the up “On” position.

Wait 3-4 minutes to allow for the electronics to power on again.

Then turn on the front power button and now watch the instrument status light…. Should go from dark (off) to Red.. possibly off again.. then flashing amber (yellow) then finally to a solid amber (yellow) color. This could take another 3-4 minutes to occur. Once the status light is solid amber then reboot the computer. Login to Windows.. then making sure the exhaust, chiller, gas and auto sampler are all on FINALLY open the Mass Hunter software.

You may need to turn the vacuum pump on through the software.

Also be sure to check that the auto sampler is responding. Have the auto sampler to go a specific position and then return to home or rinse. If the auto sampler does not respond, then recheck the com ports in case it has defaulted to the incorrect com port. In the Hardware Pane on the autosampler icon right click and set communication and try all the com port numbers to see which one will respond.

Note: the instrument (vacuum) does need to purge overnight prior to running after a lengthy shutdown.

Try lighting the plasma again.

Tags: ICPMS, shutdown procedure

ICP-OES: Checking for a Blocked Nebulizer

kristen.sensabaugh — Tue, 04 May 2021 17:42:36 GMT

Current Revision posted to Wiki by kristen.sensabaugh on 5/4/2021 5:42:36 PM

Agilent Support Insights

This Information Applies To: All Agilent ICP-OES instruments

Issue:

Blocked nebulizers are the source of many instrument performance issues including loss of sensitivity and poor precision, especially when running organics, high solids, or high salt concentration solutions. The glass concentric Seaspray nebulizer comes by default with the 5000 Series ICP-OES instruments. If running samples that contain high % total dissolved solids (TDS), it is important to first centrifuge or filter them through a 0.45 micron filter prior to running them on the ICP-OES. If samples are not fully digested, concentric nebulizers can easily become blocked (partially or fully) by sample particles. The Nebulizer Test helps you to verify nebulizer performance. Run this test if you notice no mist in the spray chamber or have low sensitivity during analysis, or high % RSD's on your replicates. Visually examining the nebulizer may reveal a blockage, but this is not the most effective way to determine whether the nebulizer is partially or fully blocked. Once you have performed the Nebulizer test, as detailed below, and have learned that your nebulizer may be blocked, follow the procedure on How to Clean a Blocked Nebulizer.

Before you start:

Turn on the external exhaust and then the ICP-OES.
Open ICP Expert software.
Install the nebulizer, spray chamber, and torch and ensure the gas supply is connected and turned on.

For a good reference point, perform this test when the nebulizer is new and compare the results when testing for blockages.

Steps to follow:

1. Click Instrument on the toolbar.

2. Click Dashboard.

3. Select the appropriate nebulizer from the 'Nebulizer Select' drop-down menu. Select 'Other' if your nebulizer is not available in the list.

4. Click Start to run the test.

5. Once the test is finished, click the Status tab and then Tests to view the results.

What to do if the Back Pressure Test Fails

High Back Pressure

This is often caused by a blocked nebulizer or torch injector tube.

Replace the nebulizer with a brand new one (preferably) or clean one
Clean the nebulizer
Check and clean if necessary the torch injector tube

Low Back Pressure

This is often caused by the nebulizer leaking, the internal capillary of the nebulizer is cracked or broken, or the nebulizer is not connected properly.

Check the connections and reinstall the nebulizer

Learn more on how to effectively troubleshoot your ICP-OES:

ICPOES-5110-1270e - Agilent 5110 ICP-OES Maintenance and Troubleshooting e-Learning course on Agilent University

Keywords: ICP-OES nebulizer, clogged nebulizer, nebulizer blockage, 700 Series ICP-OES, 5000 Series ICP-OES, Seaspray

Tags: ICPOES, 5900, 5800, 5100, 5110, Agilent Support Insights, seaspray, nebulizer

Explore Atomic Spectroscopy eLearning Courses at Agilent University

kristen.sensabaugh — Tue, 04 May 2021 17:42:36 GMT

Current Revision posted to Wiki by kristen.sensabaugh on 5/4/2021 5:42:36 PM

Agilent 5000 Series ICP-OES with ICP Expert Agilent Technologies (viewcentral.com)

Agilent 7800/7900 ICP-MS with MassHunter Agilent Technologies (viewcentral.com)

Agilent 8900 Triple Quadrupole ICP-MS with MassHunter Agilent Technologies (viewcentral.com)

Tags: Spectroscopy training

Troubleshooting ICP-OES and ICP-MS Chillers (G3292A and G8481A)

kristen.sensabaugh — Tue, 04 May 2021 17:42:36 GMT

Current Revision posted to Wiki by kristen.sensabaugh on 5/4/2021 5:42:36 PM

Agilent Support Insights

This Information Applies To: Agilent G3292A and G8481A Chillers used on ICP-OES and ICP-MS instruments

When experiencing issues with your Agilent chiller, please try a factory reset first, as shown in the steps below and in Figure 1:

1. Place the main power switch on the rear of the instrument in the OFF position .

2. Press and hold the "soft" power button on the front panel while returning the main power switch to the ON position (O).

Figure 1. Perform a Factory Reset of the chiller.

After performing a factory reset, you will need to set the chiller temperature to 20 degrees C:

1. Press the Select/Set knob on the front panel (right above the soft power button).

2. The decimal point at the bottom right of the display will flash, indicating that the temperature can be changed.

3. Rotate the Select/Set knob until the desired setpoint temperature (20 degrees C) is displayed.

4. The setting is accepted after the Select/Set knob is pressed a second time or automatically after a few seconds of inactivity.

If the factory reset doesn't help, and you are getting a "Lo H2O" error on the front display of the chiller, please check the fuses after ensuring the chiller is full of coolant:

Always unplug the chiller prior to removing any covers.

1. Unplug the chiller.

2. From the back of the chiller, slide off the top cover after removing the two screws on the left and right side, as shown in Figures 2 and 3:

Figure 2. Remove the screws at the top on the back of the chiller.

Figure 3. Remove the top cover of the chiller.

3. Then remove the 2 screws at the top of the front of the chiller, as shown in Figure 4:

Figure 4. Remove the screws at the top of the front of the chiller.

4. Once you have access to the main board, identify the 2 fuses, as shown in Figure 5:

Figure 5. The 2 fuses on the main board of the chiller.

5. Remove and check the continuity of the 2 fuses with a multi-meter.

6. If new fuses are needed, they can obtained at any home improvement store.

7. Replace the bad fuse(s), and reassemble the screws and the top cover.

8. Turn on the main power to the chiller.

Learn more on how to effectively maintain and troubleshoot your Agilent ICP-OES Systems:

ICPOES-5110-1270e - Agilent 5110 ICP-OES Maintenance and Troubleshooting e-Learning course on Agilent University

Keywords: G3292A, G8481A, ICPOES, chiller, fuse, factory reset

Tags: ICPOES, G8481A, G3292A, ICPMS, chiller fuses, Agilent Support Insights, ICPOES chiller

Atomic Spectroscopy

kristen.sensabaugh — Tue, 04 May 2021 17:42:36 GMT

Current Revision posted to Wiki by kristen.sensabaugh on 5/4/2021 5:42:36 PM

Welcome to the Atomic Spectroscopy Wiki!

Tips and Tricks for ICP-MS General Applications

kristen.sensabaugh — Tue, 04 May 2021 17:42:36 GMT

Current Revision posted to Wiki by kristen.sensabaugh on 5/4/2021 5:42:36 PM

Agilent Support Insights

This Information Applies To: Agilent ICP-MS Systems

Issue:

This is a small collection of general application tips and tricks for ICP-MS

Recommendations:

Use appropriate PPE when working with strong acids

HCl and Polyatomic Interferences

Traditionally, HNO3 alone was preferred to avoid polyatomic interferences in ICP-MS without CRC. However, the lack of Cl- ion caused numerous problems with several elements. Therefore, we recommend using HCl in CRC system when you have:

Poor extraction efficiency during preparation (e.g., Sn in soil extracts).
Poor stability for many elements (Hg, Sn, Mo, W, Ag, As, Se, PGMs, REEs).
Poor stability of many elements in standard solutions due to lack of co-existing ions/ligands.
Poor washout characteristics.

Where possible, adding some HCl to the samples (0.5% minimum) may help with these cases.

Sample Container:

Where possible, use PP or PE (low density) for containers, avoid glass.
Dispose after use.
Polypropylene is better for long-term storage as it is less permeable.
Fluorinated polymers are an excellent choice as they are very clean.

HF use:

1% HF is sufficient to damage the standard sample introduction system

Please use the PFA kit (PFA spray chamber, PFA nebulizer, platinum cones).

Washout solutions:

Rinse port (HNO3)
Basic rinse (H2O, H2O2, NH4OH, EDTA, Triton X) stock solution
Acid mix (10% HCl, HNO3, 0.01% HF)
Acid matrix in sample

Solving problems with Ag and Pb analyses:

Though solubility rules say that some metals (Ag, Pb, Hg) precipitate as chlorides, due to presence of chloride ions in water. In water, both Ag and Pb would indeed precipitate as chlorides. The situation is different in acid. AgNO3 is water soluble, but Ag+ is easily reduced to Ag(metal). The reduction is acid catalyzed or photo catalyzed, so nitric acid alone is not good for Ag.
Though adding a little HCl may precipitate Ag+ as chloride, adding more brings it back into solution as [AgCl2]- or higher Cl- complexes, depending on the Cl- concentration. By having Ag complexed with HCl as a source of Cl-, you shift the equilibrium away from free Ag+ ion to silver chloro-complexes. This slows the rate of silver loss by reduction.
Pb is less of a problem. It is fine in diluted nitric acid. Since you will have Pb in acid, the water solubility rules again do not apply unless Pb and Ag concentrations are way above solubility levels anyway, typically not the case for analytical work. At any HCl concentration above 0.005 M, Pb2+ forms a soluble anionic complex.
Something that might work even better than HCl in a final dilution is getting your nitric acid down to 1% or lower with 0.1% cysteine. This acid-soluble sulfur ligand will grab those soft acid cation species (Pb and Ag) and hold them in solution. The problem is that higher nitric acid concentrations will oxidize the cysteine at a rate dependent on nitric acid concentrations. Immediately after dissolution, cysteine will be oxidized to cystine (the disulfide bonded dimer). Prolonged solution in strong oxidizer like nitric acid will take the oxidation further, diminishing its chelating power. That is why less than 1% nitric acid is good when using cysteine. So, it is not recommended to add cysteine before final dilution, or to the undiluted digest.

Learn more on how to effectively operate your Agilent ICP-MS Systems:

ICPMS-0GEN-1010e - Agilent ICP-MS with MassHunter: An Introduction to ICP-MS e-Learning course on Agilent University

ICPMS-0GEN-1030e - Agilent ICP-MS with MassHunter: Analysis Considerations e-Learning course on Agilent University

Keywords: ICPMS, SQ, QQQ, 7500, 7700, 7800, 7900, 8800, 8900

Tags: 7900, 7700, QQQ, 7800, SQ, 7500, ICPMS, 8800, 8900, Agilent Support Insights

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High Back Pressure

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Troubleshooting ICP-OES and ICP-MS Chillers (G3292A and G8481A)

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Tips and Tricks for ICP-MS General Applications