seaFAST - Automated ICPMS Preconcentration System for Undiluted Seawater

The seaFAST is an automated on-line ICPMS sample introduction system for the determination of ultra trace metals in undiluted seawater. The seaFAST system improves detection limits for a range of elements through preconcentration, matrix elimination, and reduced procedural blanks.

seaFAST is a complete system that incorporates two high-purity injection valves. The system takes up an aliquot of sample in a loop on one inert injection valve and preconcentrates elements such as Ti, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb on a chelation column attached to a second high-purity valve. The column chemistry allows Na, Cl, Mg, and Ca matrix ions to pass through. The concentrated metals are then eluted into a nebulizer and detected using an ICPMS instrument.

The seaFAST system also preconcentrates the following elements: Al, Sc, V, Mn, Fe, Ga, Y, Zr, Nb, Mo, Pd, Ag, In, Sn, La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, Lu, Hf, Ta, W, Re, Bi, Th, and U.

The seaFAST system provides many benefits, including:

• Automated Matrix Removal and Analyte Preconcentration: Low and sub-ppt detection limits in undiluted seawater.
• Low Procedural Blanks: Elimination of dilution steps avoids contamination from the diluent, acid, secondary vessels, and laboratory handling. Concentrations as analyzed are up to 10x higher than with dilution methods, improving S/N.
• Fast Turn Around: On-line automated preconcentration and matrix elimination reduces lengthy and contamination-prone manual sample preparation steps and allows for better control and correction of procedural and instrumental blanks.
• Alternate Chemistries: seaFAST system can be used with many column chemistries and mixed chemistries designed to target single or oligo element preconcentration and determination in seawater.

All seaFAST systems include:

• SC Autosampler with FAST PC3 Complete
• 6 Channel precision MP² micro peristaltic pump
• High-purity fluoropolymer injection valves and all connections
• seaFAST column with all PFA construction and PTFE frits
• Trace metals cleanup column (2 ea)
• Suggested methods

seaFAST Options

• seaFAST 1: Preconcentration Mode: A chelation column binds transition metals and rare earth elements but allows matrix Na⁺, Cl^-, Ca2⁺, ad Mg2⁺ ions to be rinsed out. After the preconcentration step, analytes are eluted and detected by ICPMS. (2 valves)
• seaFAST 2: Preconcentration and Direct Modes: The capabilities of seaFAST 1, plus online dilution with internal standard during the same analytical run. (3 valves)
• seaFAST 3: Preconcentration, Direct and Hydride Modes: The capabilities of seaFAST 2, plus simultaneous batch-modes hydride generation for As, Se and other hydride forming elements. (5 valves, 2 syringes)

All seaFAST systems may be configured to operate as high throughput SC-FAST systems for direct sample analysis.