The Ultramass is in standard configuration. A v-groove nebulizer is used in preference to glass concentric as it was found to cope better with the micro-clots commonly found in diluted blood and blood plasma. Nickel sample and skimmer cones are used. Resolution of the quadrupole is set to 0.8 amu for all matrices. An autosampler/autodiluter is used. Its rack system has been re-engineered to accept the 5 mL tubes used to contain small volume diluted samples.
Maintenance requirements are modest. The spray chamber is disassembled and well rinsed in reagent water weekly, and sonicated in reagent water monthly. The all quartz torch is inspected for condition weekly and removed for cleaning 3-5 weekly. Sampler and skimmer cones are operated in "burnt-in" condition, being cleaned at 2-3 month intervals. The ion optics are serviced by the operators at 3-6 month intervals.
Introduction of the ICP-MS has led to substantial time savings, which have been due to a switch from performing single-element AAS determinations to single matrix multi-element ICP-MS determinations. This has resulted in significant improvement in turnaround times which is appreciated by our customers.
Sample preparation is considerably simplified, usually a single dilution is required for each matrix. The well documented interferences in these matrices have been overcome through the use of concentration validated calibration base materials which are then fortified with additions of certified standards.
The determinations have been shown to be reliable, precise, and accurate by participation in external quality assurance programs and analysis of commercial quality materials.