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New Agilent 7500ce ICP/MS Arrives!
June 30th, 2008
Basic Laboratory has purchased a new Agilent 7500ce ICP/MS system for trace metals analysis. The system is currently in the process of being installed and optimized in the laboratory. The 7500ce incorporates several new design innovations. Its Octopole Reaction System features redesigned ion optics and a high-transmission reaction cell, which allows the Agilent 7500ce to detect analytes at parts-per-trillion levels even in samples with high amounts of dissolved solids. With a dynamic range of nine orders, the new system can measure both trace species in the parts per trillion level and major elements in the parts per thousand level in the same analytical run.
The new instrument will continue to increase our capabilities for trace level metals analysis using methods like EPA 1638. The instrument can also be coupled with a GC or IC to provide metals speciation capabilities.
Perchlorate by EPA 331.0 – LC/MS/MS
June 9th, 2008Basic Laboratory has received final certification from CA-ELAP for the analysis of perchlorate by LC/MS/MS method EPA 331.0. According to the EPA, “perchlorate is both a naturally occurring and man-made chemical. Most of the perchlorate manufactured in the United States is used as the primary ingredient of solid rocket propellant. Wastes from the manufacture and improper disposal of perchlorate-containing chemicals are increasingly being discovered in soil and water.”
Because of the potential health hazard, the State of California has chosen to require regular monitoring in most drinking water sources. The Method Detection Limit (MDL) required by California for monitoring purposes is 4ppb (0.004ppm). EPA method 331.0 is one of the newest and most highly advanced analytical methods, and allows us to accurately detect perchlorate down to less than 0.2ppb. We are capable of lower detection limits if necessary.
EPA method 331.0 is a significant advancement from the older EPA method 314.0 which utilized the standard ion chromatography technique. The use of LC/MS/MS allows for lower detection limits and the nearly complete elimination of false positive results.
If you are required to monitor for perchlorate, give us a call. For more information and details regarding the California perchlorate monitoring rule, click the link below.
Perchlorate Standard Adoption Memo (0.1 MB)