LimsPulse
Spectroscopy

Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer (ICP-MS)

Ionises the sample in an argon plasma and counts the ions of each element by their mass. The most sensitive routine technique for elemental impurities, reaching ng/L levels.

  • Pharmaceutical
  • Biotech
  • Environmental
  • Food & beverage
  • Semiconductor
  • Clinical
Photo of a Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer (ICP-MS)
Photo: Cyberwork 95, CC BY-SA 4.0 (cropped), via Wikimedia Commons
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE

Maintenance checklist

Daily / each use

  • Tune / performance check
  • Inspect pump tubing
  • Check vacuum readings and argon supply
  • Empty drain

Weekly

  • Inspect and clean sampler and skimmer cones (frequency depends on sample load)
  • Clean nebuliser, spray chamber and torch
  • Check rotary pump oil level

Monthly / quarterly

  • Clean ion lenses if sensitivity falls
  • Change rotary pump oil per manufacturer's interval
  • Check chiller and exhaust

Six-monthly / annual

  • Preventive maintenance by service engineer
  • Mass calibration and detection limit calibration
  • Detector check (voltage and cross-calibration)
SAFETY

Safety precautions

Before you work on the ICP-MS
  • The plasma emits UV light and RF energy: keep covers closed while running.
  • Interface and cones are hot after shutdown; allow to cool.
  • Handle concentrated nitric and hydrochloric acid and any hydrofluoric acid in a fume hood with full PPE; HF needs special training and calcium gluconate gel on hand.
  • Toxic element standards (As, Cd, Hg, Pb) must be handled with gloves and disposed of as hazardous waste.
  • Secure argon supply; ensure good room ventilation.
In LimsPulse · Calibration Management

Keep every ICP-MS in control: usage logs, calibration and maintenance schedules, and automatic blocking of overdue instruments.

See how