Starting the ICP-OES

Starting the ICP-OES#

  1. Check integrity of torch and spray chamber assemblies—two doors on the right side of instrument. Check for any cracks, scratches, etc. Be sure to close firmly when done to reset the interlocks. (Check tubes ensure that nothing is cracked or worn)

  2. Turn on the green power light on the ICP-OES.

  3. Clamp pump.

    Attention

    DO NOT mess with the spring tensions. (All 4 get clamped)

  4. Power on the LYTRON MCS recirculator (under bench, switch on front panel). Check the water level in viewer below switch. Also check waste jug. Find a new container if full.

    Hint

    Make sure that it is plugged in (You should hear a fan kick on… low hum)

  5. Start the software on the computer — WinICP

  6. Check the status box (want to see IDLE). The protocol should be METL2014. Also check for interlock error messages.

  7. Turn on both in-use gas supplies completely. Make sure the outlet pressure is between 80 and 90 psi. (In the corner you will see a cluster of gas canisters and valves on the wall)

  8. Make sure that there is 5% HNO3 in the rinse trough (white plastic near the instrument needle).

    Warning

    Don’t place the volumetric flask of HNO3 next to the wires or else rust will affect the wires (as can be seen).

    Then, place the auto sampler tip in the rinse using the software: “Scan” tab, ‘To Rinse’ in lower left window.

  9. On the software, choose the “Control” tab. Click “Cold Autostart” and monitor the progress. The argon should be on, the air pump on, after about 60 seconds a click should occur, and the plasma turns on (Bright blue light in the window of the instrument door). Make sure the peristaltic pump (outside of the instrument with the greenish tubes) is turning and liquid is flowing into and out of the instrument through the tubing. You should see liquid flowing through the tubes through the pump. It is a good idea to recheck argon tank output pressures at this point.

    Tip

    Have someone designated to check the plasma every few minutes to make sure that it is not put out by the liquid because then you will have to reignight it.

  10. Open a new data set (File, New DataSet). Use Julian calendar (very end of this manual) to name, a copy is found on the computer or the last page of this document. Ex. 0602022 was used for March 1, 2022.

  11. Wait 30 minutes for the plasma to warm. It will take 60 minutes to make your standards, fill sample trays, and sample ID page. It is good idea to start prepping your series of standard solutions while the machine warms up!