The most trusted name in elemental analysis.

PerkinElmer has been at the forefront of inorganic analytical technology for over 40 years. With a
comprehensive product line that includes Flame AA systems, high-performance Graphite Furnace
AA systems, flexible ICP-OES systems and the most powerful ICP-MS systems, we can provide the
ideal solution no matter what the specifics of your application. ATOMIC SPECTROSCOPY:
We understand the unique and varied needs of the customers and markets we serve. And we
provide integrated solutions that streamline and simplify the entire process from sample handling A Guide to Selecting the
and analysis to the communication of test results.
Appropriate Technique and System.
With tens of thousands of installations worldwide, PerkinElmer systems are performing inorganic
analyses every hour of every day. Behind that extensive network of products stands the industry’s
largest and most responsive technical service and support staff. Factory-trained and located in 125
countries, they have earned a reputation for consistently delivering the highest levels of
personalized, responsive service in the industry.

From the world leader in AA, ICP-OES and ICP-MS

PerkinElmer, Inc.
940 Winter Street
Waltham, MA 02451 USA
Phone: (800) 762-4000 or
(+1) 203-925-4602
www.perkinelmer.com

For a complete listing of our global offices, visit www.perkinelmer.com/lasoffices

©2008 PerkinElmer, Inc. All rights reserved. The PerkinElmer logo and design are registered trademarks of PerkinElmer, Inc. PerkinElmer is a registered trademark and AAnalyst,
Optima, WinLab32, Dynamic Reaction Cell and DRC are trademarks of PerkinElmer, Inc. or its subsidiaries, in the United States and other countries. ELAN is a registered trademark
of MDS Sciex, a division of MDS, Inc. All other trademarks not owned by PerkinElmer, Inc. or its subsidiaries that are depicted herein are the property of their respective owners.
PerkinElmer reserves the right to change this document at any time without notice and disclaims liability for editorial, pictorial or typographical errors.

008044_01 Printed in USA

www.perkinelmer.com/lasoffices

many global offices, visit:

Or, to find contact information for one of our

www.perkinelmer.com/atomicspectroscopy
For more product information, visit:
What is atomic spectroscopy?

Atomic spectroscopy is the technique for determining

the elemental composition of an analyte by its
Primary Industries
electromagnetic or mass spectrum. Several analytical
techniques are available, and selecting the most Many industries require a variety of elemental
appropriate one is the key to achieving accurate, determinations on a diverse array of samples.
reliable, real-world results. Key markets include:
• Environmental
Proper selection requires a basic understanding of each
technique since each has its individual strengths and • Chemical/Industrial
limitations. It also requires a clear understanding of • Geochemical/Mining
your laboratory’s analytical requirements.
• Biomonitoring
The following pages will give you a basic overview of • Food
the most commonly used techniques and provide the
• Agriculture
information necessary to help you select the one that
best suits your specific needs and applications. • Hydrocarbon Processing
• Semiconductor
• Nuclear
• Sustainable Energy
• Pharmaceutical
For more details, see page 13.
Commonly used atomic spectroscopy techniques.

There are three widely accepted analytical methods—

atomic absorption, atomic emission and mass
spectrometry—which will form the focus of our
discussion, allowing us to go into greater depth on the
most common techniques in use today:
HCL or Flame Monochromator Detector
• Flame Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy EDL Lamp

• Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Figure 1. Simplified drawing of a Flame AA system.

• Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission

each element to be determined, although in some
Spectroscopy (ICP-OES)
cases, a few elements may be combined in a multi-
• Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry element lamp. In the past, photomultiplier tubes have
(ICP-MS) been used as the detector. However, in most modern
instruments, solid-state detectors are now used. Flow
Flame Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy
Injection Mercury Systems (FIMS) are specialized,
Atomic Absorption (AA) occurs when a ground state easy-to-operate atomic absorption spectrometers for
atom absorbs energy in the form of light of a specific the determination of mercury. These instruments use a
wavelength and is elevated to an excited state. The high-performance single-beam optical system with a
amount of light energy absorbed at this wavelength low-pressure mercury lamp and solar-blind detector
will increase as the number of atoms of the selected for maximum performance.
element in the light path increases. The relationship
Whatever the system, the atom source used must
between the amount of light absorbed and the
produce free analyte atoms from the sample. The
concentration of analytes present in known standards
source of energy for free-atom production is heat,
can be used to determine unknown sample concentrations
most commonly in the form of an air/acetylene or
by measuring the amount of light they absorb.
nitrous-oxide/acetylene flame. The sample is
Performing atomic absorption spectroscopy requires a introduced as an aerosol into the flame by the sample
primary light source, an atom source, a monochromator introduction system consisting of a nebulizer and
to isolate the specific wavelength of light to be spray chamber. The burner head is aligned so that
measured, a detector to measure the light accurately, the light beam passes through the flame, where
electronics to process the data signal and a data the light is absorbed.
display or reporting system to show the results. (See
The major limitation of Flame AA is that the
Figure 1.) The light source normally used is a hollow
burner-nebulizer system is a relatively inefficient
cathode lamp (HCL) or an electrode-less discharge
sampling device. Only a small fraction of the sample
lamp (EDL). In general, a different lamp is used for
reaches the flame, and the atomized sample passes
quickly through the light path. An improved sampling
device would atomize the entire sample and retain
the atomized sample in the light path for an extended
period of time, enhancing the sensitivity of the
technique. Which leads us to the next option—
electrothermal vaporization using a graphite furnace.
Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption
Spectroscopy
With Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption (GFAA), Graphite Furnace analysis times are longer than those for
the sample is introduced directly into a graphite tube, Flame sampling, and fewer elements can be determined
which is then heated in a programmed series of steps to using GFAA. However, the enhanced sensitivity of
remove the solvent and major matrix components and GFAA, and its ability to analyze very small samples,
to atomize the remaining sample. All of the analyte is significantly expands the capabilities of atomic
atomized, and the atoms are retained within the tube absorption.
(and the light path, which passes through the tube) for
GFAA allows the determination of over 40 elements in
an extended period of time. As a result, sensitivity and
microliter sample volumes with detection limits
detection limits are significantly improved over Flame AA.
typically 100 to 1000 times better than those of Flame
AA systems.

HCL or Graphite Monochromator Detector

EDL Lamp Tube

Figure 2. Simplified drawing of a Graphite Furnace AA system.

1 2
H He
Hydrogen Helium
1.00794 4.003
3 4 1 Atomic number 5 6 7 8 9 10
Li Be H
Hydrogen
Element Symbol
B C N O F Ne
Lithium Beryllium Element Name Boron Carbon Nitrogen Oxygen Fluorine Neon
6.941 9.012182 1.00794 Atomic Mass 10.811 12.0107 14.00674 15.9994 18.9984032 20.1797
11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
Na Mg Al Si P S Cl Ar
Sodium Magnesium Aluminum Silicon Phosphorus Sulfur Chlorine Argon
22.989770 24.3050 26.981538 28.0855 30.973761 32.066 35.4527 39.948
19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36
K Ca Sc Ti V Cr Mn Fe Co Ni Cu Zn Ga Ge As Se Br Kr
Potassium Calcium Scandium Titanium Vanadium Chromium Manganese Iron Cobalt Nickel Copper Zinc Gallium Germanium Arsenic Selenium Bromine Krypton
39.0983 40.078 44.955910 47.867 50.9415 51.9961 54.938049 55.845 58.933200 58.6934 63.546 65.39 69.723 72.61 74.92160 78.96 79.904 83.80
37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54
Rb Sr Y Zr Nb Mo Tc Ru Rh Pd Ag Cd In Sn Sb Te I Xe
Rubidium Strontium Yttrium Zirconium Niobium Molybdenum Technetium Ruthenium Rhodium Palladium Silver Cadmium Indium Tin Antimony Tellurium Iodine Xenon
85.4678 87.62 88.90585 91.224 92.90638 95.94 (98) 101.07 102.90550 106.42 107.8682 112.411 114.818 118.710 121.760 127.60 126.90447 131.29
55 56 57 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86
Cs Ba La Hf Ta W Re Os Ir Pt Au Hg Tl Pb Bi Po At Rn
Cesium Barium Lanthanum Hafnium Tantalum Tungsten Rhenium Osmium Iridium Platinum Gold Mercury Thallium Lead Bismuth Polonium Astatine Radon
132.90545 137.327 138.9055 178.49 180.9479 183.84 186.207 190.23 192.217 195.078 196.96655 200.59 204.3833 207.2 208.98038 (209) (210) (222)
87 88 89 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111
Fr Ra Ac Rf Db Sg Bh Hs Mt Ds Rg
Francium Radium Actinium Rutherfordium Dubnium Seaborgium Bohrium Hassium Meitnerium Darmstadtium Roentgenium
(223) (226) (227) (261) (262) (263) (262) (265) (266) (269) (272)

58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71
Ce Pr Nd Pm Sm Eu Gd Tb Dy Ho Er Tm Yb Lu
Cerium Praseodymium Neodymium Promethium Samarium Europium Gadolinium Terbium Dysprosium Holmium Erbium Thulium Ytterbium Lutetium
140.116 140.90765 144.24 (145) 150.36 151.964 157.25 158.92534 162.50 164.93032 167.26 168.93421 173.04 174.967
90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103
Th Pa U Np Pu Am Cm Bk Cf Es Fm Md No Lr
Thorium Protactinium Uranium Neptunium Plutonium Americium Curium Berkelium Californium Einsteinium Fermium Mendelevium Nobelium Lawrencium
232.0381 231.03588 238.0289 (237) (244) (243) (247) (247) (251) (252) (257) (258) (259) (262)

The Periodic Table of Elements—See page 14 for a listing of detection limits for all elements using the different atomic spectroscopy methods.

w w w. p e r k i n e l m e r. c o m 5
 Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical
Emission Spectroscopy
Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission The optical system used for ICP-OES consists of a
Spectroscopy (ICP-OES) is the measurement of the spectrometer that is used to separate the individual
light emitted by the elements in a sample introduced wavelengths of light and focus the desired
into an ICP source. The measured emission wavelengths onto the detector (Figure 4). Older,
intensities are then compared to the intensities of “direct reader” types of ICP-OES systems used a
standards of known concentration to obtain the series of photomultiplier tubes to determine pre-
elemental concentrations in the unknown sample. selected wavelengths. This limited the number of
elements that could be determined as the
There are two ways of viewing the light emitted from
wavelengths were generally fixed once the
an ICP. In the classical ICP-OES configuration, the
instrument was manufactured. Sequential-type
light across the plasma is viewed radially (Figure
systems can select any wavelength and focus it on a
3a), resulting in the highest upper linear ranges. By
single detector. However, this is done one element at
viewing the light emitted by the sample looking
a time, which can lead to much longer analysis
down the center of the torch (Figure 3b) or axially,
times.
the continuum background from the ICP itself is
reduced and the sample path is maximized. Axial
viewing provides better detection limits than those
obtained via radial viewing by as much as a factor of
10. The most effective systems allow the plasma to
be viewed in either orientation in a single analysis,
Plasma Spectrometer Detector
providing the best detection capabilities and widest
working ranges.
Figure 4. Simplified drawing of a basic ICP system.

In today’s modern ICP-OES systems, solid-state

detectors based on charge-coupled devices (CCD) are
used, providing very flexible systems and
eliminating the need for large numbers of single
photomultiplier detectors.

Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP)

ICP is an argon plasma maintained by the
Figure 3a. Radially viewed plasma with a
vertical slit image in the plasma. interaction of an RF field and ionized argon gas.
The plasma can reach temperatures as high as
10,000°K, allowing the complete atomization of the
elements in a sample and minimizing potential
chemical interferences.

Figure 3b. Axially viewed plasma with an axial

slit image in the plasma.

6
Inductively Coupled Plasma
Mass Spectrometry
With Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry However, due to the fact that the sample components
(ICP-MS), the argon ICP generates singly charged ions are actually introduced into the instrument, there are
from the elemental species within a sample that are some limitations as to how much sample matrix can be
directed into a mass spectrometer and separated introduced into the ICP-MS. In addition, there are also
according to their mass-to-charge ratio. Ions of the increased maintenance requirements as compared to
selected mass-to-charge ratio are then directed to a ICP-OES systems. Generally, ICP-MS systems require
detector that determines the number of ions present that the total dissolved solids content of a sample be
(Figure 5). Typically, a quadrupole mass spectrometer below 0.2% for routine operation and maximum
is used for its ease-of-use, robustness and speed. Due to stability. There are several items, such as the interface
the similarity of the sample-introduction and data- cones and ion lens, located between the ICP torch and
handling techniques, using an ICP-MS is very much the mass spectrometer, that need to be cleaned on a
like using an ICP-OES system. periodic basis to maintain acceptable instrument
performance.

Recent developments in ICP-MS have led to new

technologies that can remove even the most difficult-
Plasma Cones Ion Quadrupole Detector to-avoid interferences (such as those coming from
Lens Mass plasma species or if an element only has one isotope)
Spectrometer
without limiting the detection capabilities of the
Figure 5. Simplified drawing of a basic ICP-MS system. system. Dynamic Reaction Cell (DRC™) technology, for
example, allows most interferences to be removed
before they reach the mass spectrometer by using
ICP-MS combines the multi-element capabilities of controlled gas-phase reaction chemistry inside an
ICP techniques with exceptional detection limits enclosed cell containing a second quadrupole mass
equivalent to or below those of GFAA. It is also one filter (Figure 6). The result is a dramatically improved
of the few analytical techniques that allows the detection capability into the sub parts-per-trillion
quantification of elemental isotopic concentrations and range for most elements.
ratios, as well as precise speciation capabilities when
used in conjunction with HPLC or GC interfaces. This
feature enables the analytical chemist to determine the
exact form of a species present—not just the total
concentration. Plasma Cones Ion Dynamic Quadrupole Detector
Lens Reaction Mass
Cell Spectrometer

Figure 6. Simplified drawing of a Dynamic Reaction Cell (DRC)

ICP-MS system.

w w w. p e r k i n e l m e r. c o m 7
 Selecting a technique for your analysis.

With the availability of a variety of atomic spectroscopy Detection limits

techniques, laboratory managers must decide which of The detection limits achievable for individual
them is best suited to their particular analytical elements are important in determining the usefulness
requirements. Unfortunately, because the techniques of an analytical technique for a given analytical
complement each other so well, it may not always be problem. Without adequate detection limit capabilities,
clear which is the optimum solution for a particular lengthy analyte concentration procedures may be
application. required prior to analysis.
Selecting a technique requires the consideration of a Typical detection limit ranges for the major atomic
variety of important criteria, including: spectroscopy techniques are shown in Figure 7. For a
• Detection limits complete listing of detection limits by element for
Flame AA, GFAA, ICP-OES (with radial and axial torch
• Analytical working range
configurations) and ICP-MS, see the table on page 14.
• Sample throughput
• Data quality
Flame AA
• Cost
ICP Emission - Radial
• Interferences
• Ease-of-use ICP Emission - Axial

• Availability of proven methodology Hydride Generation AA

In order to help you narrow your selection, many of GFAA

these criteria are discussed below for Flame AA, ICP-MS

Graphite Furnace AA, ICP-OES and ICP-MS. In simple
100 10 1 0.1 0.01 0.001
terms, your choice can be guided by answering the four
Detection Limit Ranges (ppb or µg/L)
questions in the following table:
Figure 7. Typical detection limit ranges for the major atomic
spectroscopy techniques.
Technique Decision Matrix

Flame AA GFAA ICP-OES ICP-MS

How Many Elements?

Single
•
Few
•
Many
• •
What Levels?
High ppb
• •
Sub ppb
• • •
Sub ppb-ppm
•
Sub ppt
•
How Many Samples?
Very few
• •
Few
• • • •
Many
• •
How Much Sample?
> 5 mL
• • • •
< 1-2 mL
•

8
Analytical working range
The analytical working range can be viewed as the • ICP-OES—A true multi-element technique with
concentration range over which quantitative results exceptional sample throughput. ICP-OES systems
can be obtained without having to recalibrate the typically can determine more than 73 elements per
system. Selecting a technique with an analytical minute in individual samples. Where only a few
working range (and detection limits) based on the elements are to be determined, however, ICP is
expected analyte concentrations minimizes analysis limited by the time required for equilibration of the
times by allowing samples with varying analyte plasma with each new sample, typically about 15-30
concentrations to be analyzed together. A wide seconds.
analytical working range can also reduce sample- • ICP-MS—Also a true multi-element technique with
handling requirements, minimizing potential errors. the same advantages and limitations of ICP-OES.
ICP-MS can typically determine more than 73
elements per minute in an individual sample,
GFAA
Hydride Generation AA depending on such factors as the concentration levels
Flame AA and required precision. Although ICP-MS has a wide
ICP-OES–Axial View working range, the upper linear concentration range is
ICP-OES–Radial View
ICP-OES–Dual View generally less than that of ICP-OES systems and may
ICP-MS require that some samples be diluted.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Costs
Orders of Magnitude of Signal Intensity
As they are less complex systems, instrumentation for
Figure 8. Typical analytical working ranges for the major atomic
spectroscopy techniques. single-element atomic spectroscopy (Flame AA and
GFAA) is generally less costly than that for the multi-
element techniques (ICP-OES and ICP-MS). There can
also be a considerable variation in cost among
Sample throughput
instrumentation for the same technique. Instruments
Sample throughput is the number of samples that can offering only basic features are generally less expensive
be analyzed or elements that can be determined per than more versatile systems, which frequently also
unit of time. For most techniques, analyses performed offer a greater degree of automation. Figure 9 provides
at the limits of detection or where the best precision is a comparison of typical instrument price ranges for the
required will be more time-consuming than less major atomic spectroscopy techniques.
demanding analyses. Where these factors are not
limiting, the number of elements to be determined per
sample and the analytical technique will determine the Flame AA
sample throughput. GFAA

• Flame AA—Provides relatively high sample through- ICP-OES

put when analyzing a large number of samples for a ICP-MS
limited number of elements. A typical determination
of a single element requires only 3-10 seconds. $0K $50K $100K $150K $200K
However, Flame AA requires specific light sources Typical complete system cost ($US)
and optical parameters for each element to be Figure 9. Typical relative purchase prices for atomic
determined and may require different flame gases for spectroscopy systems.
different elements. As a result, even though it is
frequently used for multi-element analysis, Flame AA is
generally considered to be a single-element technique.
• Graphite Furnace AA—As with Flame AA, GFAA is
basically a single-element technique. Because of the
need to thermally program the system to remove
solvent and matrix components prior to atomization,
GFAA has a relatively low sample throughput.
A typical graphite furnace determination normally
requires 2-3 minutes per element for each sample.

w w w. p e r k i n e l m e r. c o m 9
 Selecting a system for your analysis.

Technique Strengths Limitations Applications System

Flame AA—Flame • Very easy to use • Low sensitivity Ideal for laboratories AAnalyst—
Atomic Absorption analyzing large numbers Atomic Absorption
• Widely accepted • Single element
Spectroscopy of samples for a limited Spectrometers
analytical capability
• Extensive application number of elements and
information available • Cannot be left for the determination of
unattended (flammable major constituents and
• Relatively inexpensive
gas) higher concentration
analytes.

GFAA—Graphite • Exceptional detection • Limited analytical Ideal for laboratories AAnalyst—

Furnace Atomic limits working range analyzing a limited Atomic Absorption
Absorption number of elements and Spectrometers
• Well-documented • Sample throughput
Spectroscopy requiring excellent
applications somewhat less than
detection limits.
other techniques
• May be left unattended

ICP-OES—Inductively • Best overall multi- • Higher initial Ideal for laboratories Optima—
Coupled Plasma element atomic investment analyzing multiple ICP-OES Systems
Optical Emission spectroscopy elements in a moderate
Spectroscopy technique or large number of
samples.
• Excellent sample
throughput
• Very wide analytical
range
• Good documentation
available for
applications
• May be left unattended
• Easy to use

ICP-MS—Inductively • Exceptional multi- • Highest initial Ideal for laboratories ELAN—

Coupled Plasma Mass element capabilities investment analyzing multiple ICP-MS Systems
Spectrometry elements in a large
• Ability to perform • Method development
number of samples and
isotopic analyses more difficult than
requiring a system
other techniques
• Well-documented capable of determining
interferences and • Limited solids in trace and ultratrace
compensation sample analyte concentrations.
methods
• Rapidly growing
application information
• Detection limits equal
to or better than GFAA
with much higher
productivity
• May be left unattended

Once you have identified the best solution for your particular application, read on for more in-depth product details.

10
AAnalyst—Atomic Absorption Optima—ICP-OES Systems
Spectrometers Optima systems have the optimized design required to
This advanced line of atomic absorption (AA) ensure accuracy, improve method development and
spectrometers maximizes AA performance for even the consistently deliver the correct answer faster. Available
most difficult samples. Engineered to generate superior with a range of performance capabilities, this line of
results and provide faster, more accurate analyses, the ICP-OES instruments offers an ideal solution for
AAnalyst series offers a range of capabilities from laboratories with moderate to heavy sample loads.
simple Flame AA systems to fully integrated benchtop The family includes systems for research and quality
units providing the best in both Flame and Graphite assurance laboratories that have a wide variety of
Furnace. samples and lower frequency of analysis, as well as
models designed for laboratories with heavier loads of
PerkinElmer’s high-efficiency double-beam optical
difficult samples.
system and solid-state detector provide outstanding
signal-to-noise ratios and our transversely heated With a custom, patented solid-state detector, third
graphite atomizer (THGA) tube design eliminates generation solid-state RF power supply and purged
most interferences. optical system, Optima ICP-OES solutions provide
superior performance and enhanced reliability,
Each AAnalyst system can be equipped with flexible,
reducing operating costs and ensuring that your
intuitive WinLab32™ software which features all the
instrument is available when needed. Models offered
tools to analyze samples, report and archive data and include both radial or dual viewing of the plasma.
ensure regulatory compliance. (See inset for more details.) Dual-view allows the widest working range possible.

Optima systems also come equipped with flexible,

intuitive WinLab32 software that features all the tools
to analyze samples, report and archive data and ensure
regulatory compliance. (See inset for more details.)

WinLab32 Control Software

• Common look and feel ensures consistent

cross-platform use
• Wizards, localization and tool tips make
WinLab32 easy to learn and use
• Extensive QC options ensure data quality
• Automatic start-up and shut-down improves
productivity
• QC charting option allows efficient
preparation of quality control charts
• Optional 21 CFR Part 11 software to help
meet regulatory requirements
• Integrated control of accessories extends
capabilities of each system
• Robust platform

w w w. p e r k i n e l m e r. c o m 11
 ELAN—ICP-MS Systems
Designed for routine, high-productivity, trace- transient signal handling, run-list build and
elemental analysis, the ELAN series of ICP-MS customizable reporting. The software also includes
instruments provides excellent detection limits, PathFinder™ (an HTML-based Help function) and
especially with PerkinElmer’s patented Dynamic Enhanced Security™ to ensure regulatory compliance.
Reaction Cell (DRC) technology to preserve detection
limits in complex samples.

The preferred choice for many laboratories, ELAN

systems are freestanding and mobile for added
installation and application flexibility. The
instruments feature a variety of sample introduction
systems, including specialized options ranging from
cooled and desolvating spray chambers, to ultrasonic
and parallel-path or cross-flow nebulizers.

ELAN software gives each system the power to perform

qualitative, semi-quantitative, quantitative or
specialized analyses such as isotope-ratio, isotope-
dilution or even speciation analyses. Features include
priority samples, flexible quality control checks,

Atomic Spectroscopy Applications By Market

Commonly Used Techniques

Market Typical Applications
AA ICP-OES ICP-MS

Environmental Water
Soil
Air
Chemical/Industrial Quality control/Product testing
Geochemical/Mining Exploration
Research
Biomonitoring Biological fluids
Food Food safety
Nutritional labeling
Agriculture Soils
Semiconductor Wafers
High chemical purity
Nuclear Low-level waste
Process water
Sustainable Energy Biofuels
Solar panels
Hydrocarbon Processing Petroleum refining
Lubricants and oils

Pharmaceutical Drug development

Quality control

w w w. p e r k i nofeTechnique
Frequency l m e r. c o m
Used

12
The importance of atomic spectroscopy to specific markets.

Environmental Hydrocarbon Processing

In the environment we live in, understanding heavy From petroleum refining to a broad spectrum of
metal contamination is critical. The accurate applications using lubricants and oils, many
measurement of concentrations of these metals is industries require the determination of metals—
imperative to maintain clean air, water and soil for particularly analytes that can lead to degradation and
a safer world. contamination—to ensure conformity and monitor
and control processes.
Chemical/Industrial
From the analysis of raw materials and components Semiconductor
to finished product testing and quality control, Determining lower and lower values
industrial and chemical manufacturers require in a variety of materials—rapidly
accurate analytical techniques to ensure the safety and affordably—has become
and performance of their products. necessary in the increasingly
competitive semiconductor
Geochemical/Mining
industry.
With myriad applications from date stamping to
precious metals testing, atomic spectroscopy offers Nuclear
a fast, accurate solution for broad geological surveys
Operating under constant scrutiny, the nuclear field
as well as an invaluable means of testing potential
is required to monitor and measure the levels of a
mining areas before incurring the high costs
variety of elements to an exacting degree. Atomic
associated with digging.
spectroscopy is commonly used to determine trace
Biomonitoring elements in everything from process water to low-
level waste.
Instrumentation for accurate measurements
of metals in biological matrices is vital
Sustainable Energy
when assessing human exposures to
natural and synthetic chemicals. As the world continues to move toward eco-friendly
Speciation is also becoming technologies and energy sources, there’s an ever-
increasingly important due to its increasing need for accurate elemental analysis.
ability to provide additional Applications include testing biofuels for batch
information on element valence state or consistency and quality control, and trace elemental
molecular form. analysis on solar panels to ensure optimum
performance.
Food
Pharmaceutical
Accurate analysis of food for nutritional content,
contamination or authenticity—the exact geographic Drug research, development and production is
source of the product—is critical for regulatory and dependent on elemental analysis, starting with the
quality assurance. testing of individual ingredients and continuing
through production to final quality control, as
Agriculture impurities can affect drug efficacy and metabolism.

Trace metals are essential for plant growth. Atomic

spectroscopy also facilitates precise soil analysis to
ensure that metals are not at levels that could unduly
affect the food source (livestock and/or crops).

w w w. p e r k i n e l m e r. c o m 13
 Atomic spectroscopy detection limits.

Elem Flame AA Hg/Hydride GFAA ICP-OES ICP-MS Elem Flame AA Hg/Hydride GFAA ICP-OES ICP-MS
Ag 1.5 0.005 0.6 0.002 Mo 45 0.03 0.5 0.001
Al 45 0.1 1 0.005a Na 0.3 0.005 0.5 0.0003c
As 150 0.03 0.05 2 0.0006b Nb 1500 1 0.0006
Au 9 0.15 1 0.0009 Nd 1500 2 0.0004
B 1000 20 1 0.003c Ni 6 0.07 0.5 0.0004c
Ba 15 0.35 0.03 0.00002d Os 6
Be 1.5 0.008 0.09 0.003 P 75000 130 4 0.1a
Bi 30 0.03 0.05 1 0.0006 Pb 15 0.05 1 0.00004d
Br 0.2 Pd 30 0.09 2 0.0005
C 0.8e Pr 7500 2 0.00009
Ca 1.5 0.01 0.05 0.0002d Pt 60 2.0 1 0.002
Cd 0.8 0.002 0.1 0.00009d Rb 3 0.03 5 0.0004
Ce 1.5 0.0002 Re 750 0.5 0.0003
Cl 12 Rh 6 5 0.0002
Co 9 0.15 0.2 0.0009 Ru 100 1.0 1 0.0002
Cr 3 0.004 0.2 0.0002d S 10 28j
Cs 15 0.0003 Sb 45 0.15 0.05 2 0.0009
Cu 1.5 0.014 0.4 0.0002c Sc 30 0.1 0.004
Dy 50 0.5 0.0001f Se 100 0.03 0.05 3 0.0007b
Er 60 0.5 0.0001 Si 90 1.0 10 0.03a
Eu 30 0.2 0.00009 Sm 3000 2 0.0002
F 372 Sn 150 0.1 2 0.0005a
Fe 5 0.06 0.1 0.0003d Sr 3 0.025 0.05 0.00002d
Ga 75 1.5 0.0002 Ta 1500 1 0.0005
Gd 1800 0.9 0.0008g Tb 900 2 0.00004
Ge 300 1 0.001h Te 30 0.03 0.1 2 0.0008k
Hf 300 0.5 0.0008 Th 2 0.0004
Hg 300 0.009 0.6 1 0.016i Ti 75 0.35 0.4 0.003l
Ho 60 0.4 0.00006 Tl 15 0.1 2 0.0002
I 0.002 Tm 15 0.6 0.00006
In 30 1 0.0007 U 15000 10 0.0001
Ir 900 3.0 1 0.001 V 60 0.1 0.5 0.0005
K 3 0.005 1 0.0002d W 1500 1 0.005
La 3000 0.4 0.0009 Y 75 0.2 0.0002
Li 0.8 0.06 0.3 0.001c Yb 8 0.1 0.0002m
Lu 1000 0.1 0.00005 Zn 1.5 0.02 0.2 0.0003d
Mg 0.15 0.004 0.04 0.0003c Zr 450 0.5 0.0003
Mn 1.5 0.005 0.1 0.00007d

All detection limits are given in micrograms per liter and were determined using elemental standards in dilute aqueous solution. All detection limits
are based on a 98% confidence level (3 standard deviations).
All atomic absorption detection limits were determined using instrumental parameters optimized for the individual element, including the use of
System 2 electrodeless discharge lamps where available. Data shown were determined on an AAnalyst™ 800.
All ICP-OES (Optima 7000/7300) detection limits were obtained under simultaneous multi-element conditions with the axial view of a dual-view
plasma using a cyclonic spray chamber and a concentric nebulizer.
Cold-vapor mercury detection limits were determined with a FIAS-100 or FIAS-400 flow injection system with amalgamation accessory.
The detection limit without an amalgamation accessory is 0.2 µg/L with a hollow cathode lamp, 0.05 µg/L with a System 2 electrodeless discharge
lamp. (The Hg detection limit with the dedicated FIMS-100 or FIMS-400 mercury analyzers is < 0.005 µg/L without an amalgamation accessory and
< 0.0002 µg/L with an amalgamation accessory.) Hydride detection limits shown were determined using an MHS-15 Mercury/Hydride system.
GFAA detection limits were determined on an AAnalyst 800 using 50 µL sample volumes, an integrated platform and full STPF conditions.
Graphite furnace detection limits can be further enhanced by the use of replicate injections.
Unless otherwise noted, ICP-MS detection limits were determined using an ELAN 9000 equipped with Ryton™ spray chamber, Type II Cross-Flow
nebulizer and nickel cones. All detection limits were determined using 3-second integration times and a minimum of 8 measurements.
Letters following an ICP-MS detection limit value refer to the use of specialized conditions or a different model instrument as follows:
a Run on ELAN DRC in standard mode using Pt cones and quartz sample introduction system. b Run on ELAN DRC in DRC mode using Pt cones
and quartz sample introduction system. c Run on ELAN DRC in standard mode in Class-100 Clean Room using Pt cones and quartz sample
introduction system. d Run on ELAN DRC in DRC mode in Class-100 Clean Room using Pt cones and quartz sample introduction system.
e Using C-13. f Using Dy-163. g Using Gd-157. h Using Ge-74. i Using Hg-202. j Using S-34. k Using Te-125. l Using Ti-49. m Using Yb-173.

14
 Atomic Spectroscopy Accessories Instrument Compatibility

AAnalyst Optima ELAN

Multiwave 3000 FIAS Specialized Software

•••
Microwave sample digestion
•••
Fully automated flow-injection
•••
• QC charting
system system • Tools for 21 CFR compliance
• Built-in cooling system to reduce total • Simplifies and speeds up analyses • Speciation software
cycle time, improving productivity requiring complex sample preparation
• Ideal for drying, evaporation, acid such as Mercury and other hydride-
digestion and solvent extraction forming elements

Autosamplers High-Throughput AA Consumables

•••
• Flexible rack configurations
Sample-Introduction
System •
• HCL and EDL lamps
• Fast, accurate random access
• Corrosion-resistant sampling
••
• Minimizes sample uptake and
• Graphite tubes
• Standards
washout time
components
• Throughput increased up to 2-3 fold
• Flow-through rinse station to minimize
sample-to-sample contamination • Eliminates sample contact with
peristaltic pump tubing

Mercury Hydride Graphite Furnace ICP-OES and ICP-MS

System (for AAnalyst 400) Consumables

••
• Highly sensitive
•
• Quick, easy interchange ••
• Cones
determination of Mercury or between flame and furnace
• Torches
hydride-forming elements • Low sample consumption
(as low as a few µL) • Nebulizers

• Exceptional detection limits, • Standards

down to the pg range

For more information on any of the products shown here, or for a complete listing of all atomic spectroscopy accessories available,
please visit www.perkinelmer.com.
The most trusted name in elemental analysis.

PerkinElmer has been at the forefront of inorganic analytical technology for over 40 years. With a
comprehensive product line that includes Flame AA systems, high-performance Graphite Furnace
AA systems, flexible ICP-OES systems and the most powerful ICP-MS systems, we can provide the
ideal solution no matter what the specifics of your application. ATOMIC SPECTROSCOPY:
We understand the unique and varied needs of the customers and markets we serve. And we
provide integrated solutions that streamline and simplify the entire process from sample handling A Guide to Selecting the
and analysis to the communication of test results.
Appropriate Technique and System.
With tens of thousands of installations worldwide, PerkinElmer systems are performing inorganic
analyses every hour of every day. Behind that extensive network of products stands the industry’s
largest and most responsive technical service and support staff. Factory-trained and located in 125
countries, they have earned a reputation for consistently delivering the highest levels of
personalized, responsive service in the industry.

From the world leader in AA, ICP-OES and ICP-MS

PerkinElmer, Inc.
940 Winter Street
Waltham, MA 02451 USA
Phone: (800) 762-4000 or
(+1) 203-925-4602
www.perkinelmer.com

For a complete listing of our global offices, visit www.perkinelmer.com/lasoffices

©2008 PerkinElmer, Inc. All rights reserved. The PerkinElmer logo and design are registered trademarks of PerkinElmer, Inc. PerkinElmer is a registered trademark and AAnalyst,
Optima, WinLab32, Dynamic Reaction Cell and DRC are trademarks of PerkinElmer, Inc. or its subsidiaries, in the United States and other countries. ELAN is a registered trademark
of MDS Sciex, a division of MDS, Inc. All other trademarks not owned by PerkinElmer, Inc. or its subsidiaries that are depicted herein are the property of their respective owners.
PerkinElmer reserves the right to change this document at any time without notice and disclaims liability for editorial, pictorial or typographical errors.

008044_01 Printed in USA

www.perkinelmer.com/lasoffices

many global offices, visit:

Or, to find contact information for one of our

www.perkinelmer.com/atomicspectroscopy
For more product information, visit: