The Critical Role of Sample Injection in Laboratory Analysis

Sample injection precision directly impacts the success of ICP-OES and ICP-MS analysis. In modern analytical laboratories, the accuracy of sample introduction determines both the quality of results and overall laboratory efficiency. For facilities running high-throughput analyses, even small variations in sample injection can significantly affect data quality and operational costs.

Impact on Laboratory Results and Productivity

Precise sample injection systems like the ASXpress Plus ensure:

• Consistent analytical results across large sample sets

• Reliable quantitative measurements for regulatory compliance

• Reduced system maintenance and downtime

• Enhanced laboratory throughput without compromising accuracy

• Protection of sensitive ICP-OES and ICP-MS components
  

​When integrated into ICP analysis workflows, automated sample injection systems help laboratories meet increasing demands for faster turnaround times while maintaining analytical​ precision. This is particularly crucial for applications in environmental monitoring, petrochemical analysis, and pharmaceutical quality control.​

Increase Thr​​oughput

• Gain more sample throughput in less time by optimizing sample introduction 
• Virtually eliminate stabilization time by removing the need for “fast pumping,” improving plasma stability 

Reduce​ Maintenance 

• Extend the service life of ICP-AES/ICP-MS components such as nebulizers, spray chambers, and sample cones by reducing their exposure to the sample matrix 

Cost-Eff​ective

• Minimize sample consumption 
• Reduce laboratory costs associated with argon and power consumption, peristaltic pump tubing replacement, and maintenance 

Simple Operation

• Easy set-up with minimal modification to the analysis method 
• No additional complex software is required; all system parameters are stored in the system’s on-board processor
  

Data Quality

As part of a mining sample application, the geological certified reference material (CRM) OREAS 45f was prepared and run by a standard sample introduction setup and the ASXpress® Plus using ICP-OES detection.  Across 12 elements the average per cent recovery is very comparable, at 102% with the ASXpress® Plus and 105% with the standard setup.

 

​Timing

The ASXpress® Plus increases ICP-OES and ICP-MS sample throughput by reducing sample input, stabilization, and rinse times without affecting actual analyte measurement times.   Note that tasks such as autosampler probe evacuation, probe rinse, and rinse station refill occur simultaneously with the sample measurement.

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Xpress Configuration​ Tool

The Xpress Configuration Tool is a simple, one-screen interface to configure the ASXpress® Plus accessory and autosampler, as well as providing access to manual functions of the ASXpress® Plus and autosampler.​

The ASXpress® Plus Rapid Sample Introduction System increases sample throughput for ICP-OES and ICP-MS by reducing sample loading, signal stabilization and sample washout times. Using proven technology, the ASXpress® Plus combines a metal-free, 6-port injection valve and inert, high-speed vacuum pump to rapidly load the sample loop prior to sample introduction. The design of the ASXpress® Plus facilitates rapid rinsing of the sample probe while simultaneously injecting sample into the ICP-OES or ICP-MS nebulizer. The air-segment stream washout technology effectively cleans liquid flow paths more completely and in less time. Benefits include increased sample throughput, reduced operation costs, and less ICP-OES and ICP-MS maintenance. (See depictions and videos below.)

Analysis with ​​Standard Setup

A standard analysis setup relies upon a single peristaltic pump to deliver both sample and rinse solution to the nebulizer, usually with a change in pump speeds (fast and analysis rates) to enable reasonable sample input, stabilization, and washout times.

 

Ana​lysis with ASXp​ress® Plus Technology

The ASXpress® Plus utilizes a high-speed vacuum pump in addition to the ICP-OES or ICP-MS peristaltic pump. The 6-port valve allows the use of both pumps simultaneously, with significant reduction of total analysis time.

Load Position

>The vacuum pump rapidly fills the sample loop (green path), while the ICP-OES or ICP-MS peristaltic pump simultaneously transports carrier solution at a constant flow rate, keeping ​the ICP stable (red path).

Inject/Rins​e Position

The loaded sample is then directed into the nebulizer via the carrier solution flowing through the ICP-OES or ICP-MS peristaltic pump (red/green path). Simultaneously, the autosampler probe is moved to the rinse station and the uptake flow path (sample probe) is flushed with rinse solution (blue path) via the vacuum pump.

Compatibility

The ASXpress^® Plus Rapid Sample Introduction System is compatible with the CETAC ASX-260, ASX-280, ASX-500, ASX-510, ASX-520, ASX-560, ASX-1400, ASX-1600, ASX-7000 series, EXR-8, Oils 7400, Oils 7600, XLR-8, XLR-860 Autosamplers, PerkinElmer S10, S20 Series and AS-93 PLUS Autosamplers, and the Agilent SPS3 Autosampler.

The ASXpress^® Plus integrates with most ICP-OES and ICP-MS systems and can be easily added to autosamplers currently in operation. 

The ASXpress^® Plus may be purchased with choice of Teledyne CETAC autosampler or as an upgrade to autosamplers already in operation.

Please contact Teledyne CETAC for more information on the above listed autosamplers or for operating an ASXpress^® Plus system with non-CETAC autosamplers.