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Overview

Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) is a technique suitable for trace elemental analysis of several materials, including geological, biological, metallurgic, agricultural and environmental samples.  This technique can analyse a large number of elements simultaneously. Samples can be analysed in either a liquid (solution ICP-MS) or solid form (laser ablation ICP-MS) with typical detection limits for most elements in the parts per trillion range.  We operate an Agilent 8900 Triple-Quad ICP-MS (ICP-QQQ-MS) equipped with collision cell technology (He) for the reduction and elimination of polyatomic interferences and an O2 reaction cell for mass-shifting on difficult-to-analyse elements. We have the option to hyphenate an Agilent 1260 Infinity II bio-inert HPLC for chromatographic separation and speciation of elements.  

We have previously developed and applied methods that include:

• marine & terrestrial environment samples
• elemental composition of foods
• biological samples (cell cultures, hair, bodily fluids, etc.)
• plant and wood material
• aquaculture samples (paua, cockle, mussels, etc.)
• anti-cancer drugs
• mineral composition of geological & volcanic samples
• geochronology of minerals
• meteorites and the origins of the Solar System
• provenance of archaeological artefacts

Features

• Solution ICP-MS (liquid samples)
• Laser ablation ICP-MS (solid samples)
• Detection Limit: parts per trillion – parts per million (dependent on analysis mode and sample matrix)

Note

• Solution ICP-MS analysis is mostly suitable for all* elements except for the following: H, He, C, N, O, F, Ne, Ar, Kr, Xe, Rn. It is not ideal for Cl, Br, I.
• Laser Ablation ICP-MS is able to determine the same elemental suite plus Carbon.
• if you are unsure, please discuss your elemental profile project with the technician to determine what method is ideal for your samples.

Software

Agilent Mass Hunter controls the ICP-MS. All data output is in an excel chart.

Support

Email Stuart Morrow for all enquiries related to the Agilent 8900 ICP-MS.

Considerations

Sample collection, preparation and storage are important for obtaining good data.  When designing your experiment, please discuss it with your supervisor or a technician to ensure you can get it right the 1st time.

Cost

The ICP-MS is charged at an hourly rate.

Eligibility

Post-graduate Students, Doctoral Candidates, Research/Academic Staff, Professional Staff, Collaborators (external to the University), External Clients / Private Companies.

Access Requirements

The Agilent 8900 ICP-MS and associate instrumentation is housed on the City Campus in the School of Environment Instrument Lab (302-730B). Lab access requires health and safety training, and can be granted to users as applicable.

Training

This instrument is available for assisted use by ICP-MS centre personnel or by sample submission.

Booking

Booking requests are submitted through the Auckland Science Analytical Services (ASAS) iLab booking system. Users and their principal investigators or research group need to first have accounts in the iLab booking system. Instructions, details and FAQs on how to sign up to iLab can be found on the ASAS website.