Endress+Hauser analytikjena PlasmaQuant 9100 User manual

Operating Manual
PlasmaQuant 9100 (Elite)
High-Resolution Array ICP-OES

Manufacturer Analytik Jena AG
Konrad-Zuse-Straße 1
07745 Jena / Germany
Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]
Technical Service AnalytikJenaAG
Konrad-Zuse-Straße 1
07745 Jena / Germany
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
General Information http://www.analytik-jena.com
Documentation Number 13-5851-002-23
Edition 01.20
Technical Documentation Analytik Jena AG
© Copyright 2020, Analytik Jena AG
For a proper and safe use of this product follow the instructions.
Keep the operating manual for future reference.

PlasmaQuant 9100 (Elite) Table of contents
3
Table of contents
1 Basic information............................................................................................................................................................ 5
1.1 About this user manual .................................................................................................................................... 5
1.2 Intended use ..................................................................................................................................................... 6
2 Security............................................................................................................................................................................ 7
2.1 Safety labeling on the device ........................................................................................................................... 7
2.2 Requirements for the operating personnel..................................................................................................... 8
2.3 Safety instructions, transport and commissioning ......................................................................................... 8
2.4 Safety instructions: during operation .............................................................................................................. 9
2.4.1 Basic safety information for operation............................................................................................................ 9
2.4.2 Safety instructions – protection against explosion and fire........................................................................... 9
2.4.3 Safety instructions – electrical equipment ...................................................................................................... 9
2.4.4 Hazards caused by plasma operation.............................................................................................................. 10
2.4.5 Behavior in case of ring plasmas ..................................................................................................................... 10
2.4.6 Safety instructions on the formation of ozone and toxic vapors ................................................................... 11
2.4.7 Safety instructions for the operation of compressed gas containers and compressed gas systems............ 11
2.4.8 Handling of samples, auxiliary and operating materials................................................................................ 11
2.4.9 Safety instructions on cleaning and decontamination measures .................................................................. 12
2.5 Safety instructions for maintenance and repair.............................................................................................. 12
2.6 Behavior during emergencies .......................................................................................................................... 12
3 Function and design ....................................................................................................................................................... 13
3.1 Function and measuring principle ................................................................................................................... 13
3.2 Design................................................................................................................................................................ 13
3.2.1 Plasma generation............................................................................................................................................ 14
3.2.2 Sample supply................................................................................................................................................... 15
3.2.3 Optical system................................................................................................................................................... 16
3.3 Connections....................................................................................................................................................... 17
3.3.1 Supply and control connections....................................................................................................................... 17
3.3.2 Connections in the plasma compartment and in the sample chamber......................................................... 21
3.4 ASPQ 3300 sampler ........................................................................................................................................ 22
3.5 Other accessories.............................................................................................................................................. 23
4 Installation and commissioning..................................................................................................................................... 25
4.1 Installation conditions...................................................................................................................................... 25
4.1.1 Installation location requirements................................................................................................................... 25
4.1.2 Power supply..................................................................................................................................................... 25
4.1.3 Gas supply ......................................................................................................................................................... 26
4.1.4 Exhaust unit...................................................................................................................................................... 26
4.1.5 Recirculating chiller .......................................................................................................................................... 27
4.1.6 Device layout and space requirements............................................................................................................ 28
4.2 Unpacking and setting up the device............................................................................................................... 29
4.2.1 Installing the sample supply system................................................................................................................ 30
4.3 Putting the ASPQ 3300 into operation........................................................................................................... 33
4.4 Installing other accessories .............................................................................................................................. 37
4.4.1 Coupling the Teledyne Cetac ASX-560 sampler with other accessories ....................................................... 37
4.4.2 Installing the IsoMist XR temperature-controlled spray chamber................................................................. 41

Table of contents PlasmaQuant 9100 (Elite)
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4.4.3 Installing the argon humidifier........................................................................................................................ 43
4.4.4 Installing the inline filter.................................................................................................................................. 44
5 Operation ........................................................................................................................................................................ 45
5.1 Switching on the emission spectrometer and igniting the plasma................................................................ 45
5.2 Switching off the emission spectrometer........................................................................................................ 46
5.3 Switching off the device via the plasma deactivation switch in an emergency ............................................ 47
5.4 Starting a measurement routine...................................................................................................................... 47
6 Troubleshooting.............................................................................................................................................................. 49
6.1 Fault messages in the software ....................................................................................................................... 49
6.2 Device faults and analytical problems ............................................................................................................. 52
7 Maintenance and care.................................................................................................................................................... 56
7.1 Maintenance overview..................................................................................................................................... 57
7.2 Basic device maintenance ................................................................................................................................ 58
7.2.1 Cleaning the dismantleable torch.................................................................................................................... 58
7.2.2 Replacing the glass........................................................................................................................................... 60
7.2.3 Maintenance of the one-piece torch............................................................................................................... 63
7.2.4 Cleaning the nebulizer...................................................................................................................................... 66
7.2.5 Cleaning the sample chamber and the plasma compartment....................................................................... 67
7.2.6 Checking the gas system for leaks ................................................................................................................... 67
7.2.7 Replacing the argon hose................................................................................................................................. 68
7.2.8 Changing the plasma compartment windows ................................................................................................ 68
7.2.9 Replacing fuses ................................................................................................................................................. 71
7.2.10 Replacing the water filter................................................................................................................................. 71
7.2.11 Replacing the air filter...................................................................................................................................... 72
7.3 Sampler maintenance ...................................................................................................................................... 72
7.3.1 Replacing the cannula and sample hose......................................................................................................... 72
7.3.2 Replacing the pump hoses of the purging pump............................................................................................ 74
7.3.3 Replacing fuses ................................................................................................................................................. 76
7.4 Maintenance of the recirculating chiller: Replacing the cooling water......................................................... 76
8 Transport and storage .................................................................................................................................................... 78
8.1 Preparing the device for transport................................................................................................................... 78
8.2 Moving the device in the laboratory................................................................................................................ 78
8.3 Transport........................................................................................................................................................... 79
8.4 Storage .............................................................................................................................................................. 79
8.5 Recommissioning the device............................................................................................................................ 79
8.6 Installing the recirculating chiller .................................................................................................................... 80
9 Disposal ........................................................................................................................................................................... 81
10 Specifications .................................................................................................................................................................. 82
10.1 Technical data................................................................................................................................................... 82
10.1.1 Basic device technical data............................................................................................................................... 82
10.1.2 Control computer technical data...................................................................................................................... 84
10.1.3 Recirculating chiller technical data.................................................................................................................. 84
10.1.4 ASPQ 3300 sampler technical data ................................................................................................................ 85
10.1.5 Technical data for other accessories................................................................................................................ 85
10.2 Guidelines and standards................................................................................................................................. 86

PlasmaQuant 9100 (Elite) Basic information
5
1 Basic information
1.1 About this user manual
Contents This user manual describes the following device models:
¡PlasmaQuant PQ 9100
¡PlasmaQuant PQ 9100 Elite
In this following, these models are collectively referred to as PlasmaQuant PQ 9100. Any
differences between the models are explained in the corresponding section.
This device is intended for operation by qualified specialist personnel observing this user
manual.
This user manual provides information about the design and operation of the device and
provides operating personnel with the necessary know-how for the safe handling of the
device and its components. Furthermore, this user manual includes information on the
maintenance and care of the device as well as notes on potential causes for malfunc-
tions and their repair.
Conventions Instructions for actions which occur in chronological order are numbered and combined
in action units.
Warnings are indicated by a warning triangle and a signal word. The type, source and
consequences of the hazard are stated together with notes on preventing the hazard.
¡Elements of the control and analysis program are indicated as follows:
¡Program terms are in bold (e.g., the System menu).
¡Buttons are indicated by square brackets (e.g., [OK]).
¡Menu items are separated by vertical lines (e.g., System | Device).
Symbols and signal words used The operating instructions use the following symbols and signal words to indicate haz-
ards or instructions. The warnings are always placed before an action.
WARNING
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which can cause death or very serious (possi-
bly permanent) injury.
CAUTION
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which can cause slight or minor injuries.
NOTICE
Provides information on potential material or environmental damage.

Basic information PlasmaQuant 9100 (Elite)
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1.2 Intended use
The ICP Emission Spectrometer (ICP-OES) is used in a chemical analysis laboratory for
the analysis of liquid - mainly aqueous - samples to determine the concentrations of up
to 75 elements up to the trace range.
The device and its components may only be used for the analyses listed in the user man-
ual. Only this specified use is regarded as the intended use, ensuring the safety of the
user and the device.
This device is not suitable for solutions containing hydrofluoric acid if the nebulizer or
spray chamber is made of glass or quartz. Use hydrofluoric acid-resistant components
for this purpose. Take special precautions when working with organic solvents. In addi-
tion to apparatus-related and methodical aspects, fire and health protection regulations
for any organic solvents must be observed.

PlasmaQuant 9100 (Elite) Security
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2 Security
For your own safety and to ensure error-free and safe operation of the device, please
read this chapter carefully before commissioning.
Observe all safety instructions listed in this user manual and all messages and infor-
mation displayed on the monitor by the control and analysis software.
2.1 Safety labeling on the device
Warning and mandatory action labels have been attached to the device and must al-
ways be observed.
Damaged or missing warning and mandatory action labels can cause incorrect ac-
tions leading to personal injury or material damage. The labels must not be removed.
Damaged warning and mandatory action labels must be replaced immediately!
The following warning and mandatory action labels have been attached to the de-
vice:
Warning sym-
bol
Meaning Comment
Warning of a haz-
ardous location
¡At the exhaust vent: Warning
against optical radiation. If no ex-
haust air hose is connected, looking
indirectly (by mirror) into the radia-
tion of the plasma is possible.
¡In the sample chamber: Warning of
moving parts; warning of hot torch
¡In the plasma compartment: Warn-
ing against hot surfaces
¡At the power inlet: Caution when
connecting the media (gases, cool-
ing water and power)
Warning against hot
surfaces
¡In the plasma compartment: Warn-
ing against hot surfaces Immedi-
ately after the plasma is extin-
guished, the surface of the plasma
compartment, and in particular the
torch and plasma chamber window
components, and the induction coil,
are hot. Risk of burns!
Notice symbol Meaning Comment
Observe the user
manual.
¡At the power switch: Before starting
work, read the user manual.
Always disconnect
the power before
opening the device
¡On the side panel at the power inlet:
Before opening the device cover,
switch off the device and unplug the
power plug.

Security PlasmaQuant 9100 (Elite)
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Notice symbol Meaning Comment
People's Republic of
China only:
This device contains controlled sub-
stances. Analytik Jena guarantees that
these substances will not escape the de-
vice in the next 25 years if operated in
accordance with its intended purpose.
The following notice sign is attached to the rear of the device:
Caution! Power is still connected even when the device is switched off!
Caution! Power is still connected even when the device is switched off!
Unplug the power cable before opening!
Unplug the power cable before opening!
Only connect or disconnect accessories when the device is switched off!
Only connect or disconnect accessories when the device is switched off!
2.2 Requirements for the operating personnel
The device must only be operated by qualified specialist personnel instructed in the
use of the device. This instruction also include teaching the contents of this user
manual and of the user manuals of the connected system components. We recom-
mend training by qualified employees of Analytik Jena AG or its representatives.
In addition to the safety instructions in this user manual, the general applicable
safety and accident prevention regulations of the respective country the device is op-
erated in must be observed and adhered to. The operator must ensure the latest ver-
sion of these regulations.
The user manual must be accessible to the operating and service personnel.
2.3 Safety instructions, transport and commissioning
Incorrect installation can create serious hazards. This may result in electric shock and
explosion if the gases are not connected correctly.
¡Only the Analytik Jena AG customer service or specialist personnel trained and
authorized by them is allowed to install and commission the device and its sys-
tem components.
¡Unauthorized assembly and installation is not permitted.
Insufficiently secured components pose a risk of injury.
¡During transport, secure the device components as specified in these operating
instructions.
¡Loose parts must be removed from the system components and packed sepa-
rately.
To prevent personal injury, the following must be observed when moving the device
in the laboratory (lifting and carrying):
¡Use a lift truck to transport the device.
¡Four people positioned on the sides of the device are required to carry the device
by four firmly mounted carrying handles.
¡Risk of damage to health due to improper decontamination! Perform a profes-
sional and documented decontamination of the device before returning it to
Analytik Jena AG.

PlasmaQuant 9100 (Elite) Security
9
The decontamination report is available from Service when registering the re-
turn. Service must refuse acceptance of contaminated devices. The sender may
be liable for damage caused by inadequate decontamination of the device.
2.4 Safety instructions: during operation
2.4.1 Basic safety information for operation
The operator must make sure that the device and its safety equipment is in sound
condition each time before starting up the device. This applies in particular after
each modification or extension of the device or its repair.
Observe the following notes:
¡The device must only be operated if all protective equipment (e.g. covers and
doors) are in place, properly installed and fully operational.
¡The sound condition of the protection and safety equipment must be checked
regularly. Any defects must be corrected as soon as they occur.
¡Protective and safety equipment must never be removed, modified or switched
off during operation.
¡Modifications, conversions and extensions to the device are only permitted after
consultation with Analytik Jena AG. Unauthorized modifications can jeopardize
the device’s operational safety and may lead to limitations regarding the war-
ranty and access to customer service.
¡During operation, free access to the connections, the power switch and the man-
ual plasma deactivation switch on the left housing panel must be ensured.
¡The ventilation equipment on the device must be in good working condition.
Covered ventilation grilles or slots etc. may cause the device to break down or
may cause damage to it.
¡Caution when handing quartz glass and glass parts. Risk of broken glass and
therefore risk of injury!
¡Prevent any ingress of liquids into the interior of the device. Liquids may cause a
short circuit inside the housing.
¡During operation, there is a risk of crushing at the hose pump. Long hair and
baggy clothing can become caught in the pump and drawn in. Wear suitable hair
protections and tight-fitting clothing.
2.4.2 Safety instructions – protection against explosion and fire
The device may not be operated in an explosive environment.
Smoking or handling open flames are prohibited in the room in which the device is
operated!
2.4.3 Safety instructions – electrical equipment
Lethal voltages may occur in the device! Contact with live components may cause
death, serious injury or painful electrical shock.
¡Work on the electronics may only be carried out by the customer service of
Analytik Jena AG and specially authorized technicians.

Security PlasmaQuant 9100 (Elite)
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¡The power plug must be connected to a proper power outlet to ensure that the
device meets protection class I (ground connector). The device may only be con-
nected to power sources whose nominal voltage is the same as that on the rating
plate. The protective effect must not be invalidated by the use of an extension
line without a protective conductor.
¡The basic module and the system components may only be connected to the
mains when they are switched off.
¡Electrical connection cables between the basic module and the system compo-
nents may only be connected or disconnected when the device is switched off.
¡Before opening the device, the device must be switched off via the main switch
and the power plug must be disconnected from the power outlet!
2.4.4 Hazards caused by plasma operation
Plasma is extremely hot (up to 10000 K), and it emits electromagnetic as well as UV
radiation. The induction coil operates at 1500 V RMS and 40.68 MHz. High-fre-
quency radiation and UV radiation can cause serious injuries to skin and eyes. Con-
tact with the torch (plasma torch) shortly after operation will cause skin burns. An
electrical discharge may occur even across larger distances, causing fatal injuries,
electrical shock and skin injuries.
Observe the following:
¡To ensure safe plasma torch (torch) operation, the plasma must not be ignited
unless the following conditions are met:
– The plasma compartment door is closed.
– The torch is in working position.
– Sufficient cooling is supplied.
– The extractor device is connected and switched on.
– Argon supply is ensured.
Note: The aforementioned components are backed up by hardware safety circuits.
Unless the reliable functioning of these components is ensured, the plasma will not
be ignited, or it will be extinguished automatically if a component reports a malfunc-
tion.
¡The safety circuits must not be bridged.
¡Before opening the plasma compartment door, extinguish the plasma in the
ASpect PQ software. To do this, click on the button in the program toolbar.
¡Wait for the compartment to cool down for at least 5 min and avoid touching
any hot parts of the torch or its surroundings immediately after extinguishing the
plasma.
2.4.5 Behavior in case of ring plasmas
The manual plasma deactivation switch is located on the left-hand side of the device
(red).
In the following situations, press the deactivation switch immediately to prevent the
torch from melting:
¡The plasma produces loud noises (rattles).
¡The shape of the plasma changes considerably and a shining ring is visible on
the inside of the coil.
¡Parts of the torch begin to glow red-hot.

PlasmaQuant 9100 (Elite) Security
11
2.4.6 Safety instructions on the formation of ozone and toxic vapors
The interaction between the UV radiation from the torch and the surrounding air re-
sults in the formation of a high concentration of toxic gases such as ozone and nitro-
gen oxides. Additionally, toxic byproducts may escape from the samples and during
sample processing.
Observe the following:
¡The device may only be operated when the exhaust unit is activated.
¡The exhaust unit must be switched on before igniting the plasma.
2.4.7 Safety instructions for the operation of compressed gas containers and compressed gas
systems
¡The operating gases are taken from compressed gas containers or local com-
pressed gas systems. The operating gases must have the required purity.
¡Work on compressed gas containers and systems may only be carried out by indi-
viduals with specialist knowledge and experience in compressed gas systems.
¡Compressed air hoses and pressure reducers may only be used for the assigned
gases.
¡Pipes, hoses, screw connections and pressure reducers for oxygen must be kept
free from grease.
¡Check all pipes, hoses and screw connections regularly for leaks and externally
visible damage. Repair leaks and damage without delay.
¡Shut off the gas supply to the device prior to any maintenance and repair work
on the compressed gas containers.
¡After successful repair and maintenance of the components of the compressed
gas containers or system, the device must be checked for proper operation prior
to recommissioning.
¡Unauthorized assembly and installation are not permitted!
2.4.8 Handling of samples, auxiliary and operating materials
The operator is responsible for the selection of substances used in the process as well
as for their safe handling. This is particularly important for radioactive, infectious,
poisonous, corrosive, combustible, explosive and otherwise dangerous substances.
When handling hazardous substances, the locally applicable safety instructions and
instructions in the safety data sheets from the manufacturers of the auxiliary and op-
erating materials must be complied with.
¡Cleaning with hydrofluoric acid must be carried out in an exhaust chamber. The
operator must wear a rubber apron, gloves and a face mask when handling hy-
drofluoric acid.
¡When measuring material containing cyanide, ensure that no hydrogen cyanide
can be generated the waste bottle, i.e. the waste solution must not be acidic.
¡Ensure that all residual liquid from the nebulizer and the sampler is emptied into
the waste bottle supplied.
¡The operator is responsible for ensuring that waste materials such as drained
coolant and residual liquid from the waste bottle are disposed off in an environ-
mentally responsible manner and according to local regulations.
¡Flammable and health-hazardous organic solvents such as toluene, ethanol or
methanol can be used in the operation of the device. In there is uncertainty
about a solvent, it may only be used when the manufacturer has confirmed that
there is no danger to safety.

Security PlasmaQuant 9100 (Elite)
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2.4.9 Safety instructions on cleaning and decontamination measures
Observe the following:
¡The operator is responsible for carrying out suitable decontamination should the
device become contaminated externally or internally with dangerous substances.
¡Splashes, drops or larger liquid spillages should be removed using an absorbent
material such as cotton wool, laboratory wipes or cellulose.
¡For biological contamination, wipe the affected area with a suitable disinfectant,
such as an Incidin Plus solution. Then wipe the cleaned areas so that they are
dry.
¡The only suitable cleaning method for the housing is wipe disinfection. If the dis-
infectant has a spray nozzle, apply disinfectant to a suitable cloth before using it
on the device.
Particular care must be taken if infectious materials are analyzed with the device,
as the device cannot be decontaminated as a single unit.
¡Before using a cleaning or decontamination procedure other than that pre-
scribed by the manufacturer, the user is required to check with the manufacturer
that the intended procedure will not damage the device. Safety labels attached
to the device must not have methanol applied.
2.5 Safety instructions for maintenance and repair
The device is generally maintained by the customer service department of
Analytik Jena AG or specialist personnel trained and authorized by them.
Unauthorized maintenance can damage the device. For this reason, only the activi-
ties described in the user manual in the "Maintenance and care" chapter may be per-
formed by the operator.
¡Only clean the exterior of the device with a slightly moistened, non-dripping
cloth. Use only water and, if required, customary surfactants.
¡The operator is responsible for establishing appropriate safety precautions for
cleaning the sample compartment and transport channels (hose system) of the
device. This applies in particular to contaminated and infectious materials.
¡Use only original spare parts, wear parts and consumables. They have been
tested and ensure safe operation. Glass part are wear parts and are not subject
to the warranty.
2.6 Behavior during emergencies
Observe the following:
¡If there is no immediate danger of injury, extinguish the plasma immediately via
the plasma deactivation switch in the event of danger or accidents.
¡If possible, switch off the device via the power switch after a cooling down period
of 30 s. Then disconnect the mains plugs of the device and the system compo-
nents from their power sockets.
¡Close the gas supply as soon as possible after switching off the devices.

PlasmaQuant 9100 (Elite) Function and design
13
3 Function and design
3.1 Function and measuring principle
ICP emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) uses of plasma at temperatures of up to 10000 K.
This high temperature is focused in a very small area of approx. 5 cm³. The sample is in-
troduced to this plasma in aerosol form (small droplets in a gas). The droplets dry, melt,
vaporize and are atomized or ionized. During this process, the analysis channel of the
plasma through which the sample is flowing will cool down to approx. 6000 to 7000 K.
Atoms and ions are excited to emit light at these high temperatures. The light is broken
down by the device optics into wavelengths ("colors") whose intensity is measured to in-
dicate concentrations. A detector is used to measure the intensity of the emission line
and its spectral environment. The net intensity of the measured signal is used as the
measurand ("peak").
The inert gas argon is used as operating gas. This gas flows inside a plasma torch made
up of three concentric pipes. The plasma gas (also called cooling gas) flows at a rate of
approx. 10 to 18 l/min on the outside to cool the external torch pipe. The sample
aerosol is injected in the plasma in the innermost pipe, hence its name "injector". The
sample aerosol is created shortly before with a nebulizer and a downstream spray cham-
ber in which larger droplets are separated.
The exhaust heat of the plasma is dissipated partly by the recirculating chiller and partly
by the exhaust unit.
3.2 Design
Essentially, the optical emission spectrometer consists of the following components:
¡Components for plasma generation (HF generator, induction coil, torch)
¡Sample supply system with hose pump, nebulizer and spray chamber
¡Optical system with transfer optics, spectral photometer and detector
Both models, the PlasmaQuant PQ 9100 and the PlasmaQuant PQ 9100 Elite differ
with regard to their optical systems. The plasma generation and sample supply systems
are identical. The more powerful model, the PlasmaQuant PQ 9100 Elite with high-res-
olution optics, is particularly suitable for interference-free analysis of samples in com-
plex matrices. Important application fields are the analysis of rare earths, of high-alloy
steel or petrochemical product. The standard model, the PlasmaQuant PQ 9100,
achieves very good results in routine analysis despite its slightly low resolution.
Sample chamber and plasma
compartment
The sample introduction system is freely accessible in the sample chamber. The torch
and the induction coil, however, are located in the shielded plasma compartment to pro-
tect the user from the high-frequency radiation and the UV radiation from the plasma.
The spatial separation of sample supply and plasma also prevents the heat from the
plasma being transferred to the spray chamber without obstruction and causing a drift
there.

Function and design PlasmaQuant 9100 (Elite)
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Figure1 Emission spectrometer, with opened plasma compartment
3.2.1 Plasma generation
HF generator The emission spectrometer uses a free-running HF generator (high-frequency genera-
tor) with a frequency of 40.68 MHz. With the help of the high performance coil, the HF
generator has an output of 700 to 1700 W into the plasma. The fully automatic adjust-
ment of the power relative to the actual current sample load in the plasma provides high
plasma consistency. This makes the plasma very robust and able to manage difficult
sample matrices such as organic solutions or salt loads. The HF generator is located im-
mediately behind the plasma compartment and is shielded separately because of the
high intensity of high frequencies.
The power for maintaining the plasma is transferred to the torch in the plasma compart-
ment by means of an induction coil with four windings. The induction coil is water-
cooled.
During the initial plasma ignition period, a high voltage spark is passed from the ignition
spark generator to the discharge spring in the high-frequency field in the torch. The dis-
charge spring is located near the induction coil.
Torch The torch is designed with three layers and consists of an outer tube, an inner tube and
the injector tube on the inside.
The outer tube, in conjunction with the bonnet inserted into the coil, electrically insu-
lates the plasma from the induction coil and shields the plasma from the ambient air.
The plasma gas flows between the outer and inner tube. This gas is ionized at the induc-
tion coil and converted to a plasma state. The tangential flow of the plasma gas into the
space between the outer and inner tube cools the outer tube and prevents it from melt-
ing due to the high plasma temperatures.
The auxiliary gas flows in the intermediate space between the inner tube and the injec-
tor. It pushes the aerosol of the sample solution away from the injector.
The injector has the task of injecting the sample aerosol into the plasma. The measure-
ment solution is transported by the nebulizer gas from the spray chamber through the
injector into the plasma.

PlasmaQuant 9100 (Elite) Function and design
15
Bonnet
Induction coil
Outer tube
Inner tube
Injector
Plasma gas
Auxiliary gas
Sample aerosol
in the nebulizer
gas
Figure2 Torch diagram with gas flows
The torch can be disassembled into its individual parts ("demountable torch"). Worn indi-
vidual parts can be replaced individually, such as the outer tube, which is subject to high
thermal loads. Care must be taken during assembly to ensure that the individual parts
are inserted gas-tight and especially to check the proper fit of the injector. The standard
torch (made of quartz glass with injector, 2 mm) is also available as a unit. The one-
piece torch is cleaned as a whole; disassembly and subsequent assembly are omitted. On
the other hand, this torch has to be completely replaced when worn.
Figure3 Demountable torch
Figure4 One-piece torch
A special design (V Shuttle Torch) is used in the emission spectrometer. The upright po-
sitioning of the torch reduces clogging and soot formation.
The torch is mounted onto the rail guide with the holder (shuttle). This automatically
connects the internal gas inlets for the plasma and the auxiliary gas. The torch is then
moved by hand along the rail guide to the plasma compartment where it locks in the ad-
justed operating position.
3.2.2 Sample supply
Pump, nebulizer and spray
chamber
A hose pump evenly conveys the measurement solution to the nebulizer. The rotational
speed of the pump and the diameter of the pump tubing used determine the amount of
sample delivered. By using the pump, sample introduction into the nebulizer, and thus
also the sensitivity of the measurement signal, is independent of the viscosity of the
measurement solution.

Function and design PlasmaQuant 9100 (Elite)
16
The aerosol of the measurement solution required for atomization/ionization in the
plasma is generated by a pneumatic concentric nebulizer. An argon flow is directed past
the sample nozzle of the nebulizer as nebulizer gas. The gas flow continuously tears the
surface of the liquid at the nozzle and produces small sample droplets. The sample
aerosol that is formed is transported with the nebulizer gas through the spray chamber
to the plasma. A cyclone chamber is used as the spray chamber. On the way through the
spray chamber, large droplets in the spray chamber are separated by the centrifugal
force and flow out via the waste outlet.
Figure5 Concentric nebulizer and spray chamber
An ultrasound nebulizer is provided as an optional accessory. It delivers a high aerosol
yield for aqueous solutions. Also, the ultrasound nebulizer can remove interfering sol-
vents from the measuring gas via control of the temperature (heating range:
120 to 160 °C, cooling range: -20 to +10 °C). This results in high signal intensity. In in-
creases the sensitivity and lowers the detection limits.
Special sample supply systems Analytik Jena AG provides optimized sample supply systems for special applications.
Sample supply system Application
Standard Kit Standard applications: Environmental sam-
ples, foodstuffs, pharmaceuticals
HF Kit Digestions containing hydrofluoric acid:
Metals, ceramics, rare earths
Organic Kit Organic samples: Crude oil, petrochemical
products such as kerosene, organic solvents
Salt Kit Highly saline sample: Brine, corrosive solu-
tions or solutions containing sulfur, seawa-
ter
3.2.3 Optical system
In both device models, analyte emission in plasma is observed from two directions, axial
and radial (DualView PLUS). The emission radiation is selectively coupled via the trans-
fer optics from either direction to the monochromator. The working range is increased
by attenuating both observational directions.
For the PlasmaQuant PQ 9100 Elite, the selectivity of analysis is implemented by the
high-resolution double monochromator on the basis of a prism and an echelle grating
monochromator (high-resolution optics). Due to the echelle grating's large blaze angle
of 76°, spectral resolution is 0.002 nm at 200 nm.
The spectral resolution of the PlasmaQuant PQ 9100 is 0.006 nm at 200 nm.
On both models, the monochromator is wavelength-stabilized via the use of an inte-
grated neon emitter. Wavelength reproducibility is achieved by the internal Ne-line cali-
bration of the monochromator when approaching a wavelength.

PlasmaQuant 9100 (Elite) Function and design
17
A low noise, UV-sensitive semiconductor detector (CCD line detector) is located at the
exit slit of the monochromator. This detector not only registers the intensity of the anal-
ysis line, but also its spectral neighborhood. In this way, a spectral range of approx. 1 nm
in the vicinity of the analysis line is detected simultaneously and at a high resolution.
3.3 Connections
3.3.1 Supply and control connections
The supply lines of the emission spectrometer are connected during installation by cus-
tomer service.
The green power switch and the red plasma deactivation switch are located on the left-
hand side of the device. Also on the left side, under a cover plate, there are the connec-
tions for PC and accessories as well as the media connections for gas and the cooling
water inlet and outlet.
A pair of carrying handles are attached on the left and right for transport and installa-
tion. The handles are unscrewed and removed after installation. The carrying handles
must be stored in a safe place in case the device has to be transported again or moved
within the laboratory.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Figure6 Connections on the left device side
1 Manual plasma deactivation switch 2 Power switch
3 Carrying handle opening 4 Cooling water connections
5 Gas connections 6 Water filter
7 Power cable 8 Fuses
9 Interfaces 10 Type plate

Function and design PlasmaQuant 9100 (Elite)
18
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Figure7 Interfaces and fuses
1 "USB/B" for PC connection via USB 2 "PC" for serial PC connection (op-
tional)
3 "RS 232" (service only) 4 "Autosampler" for serial autosampler
connection (12V)
5 "Service" 6 "Chiller remote"
7 Device fuses S1, S2, S3
The "Chiller remote" connection also optionally provides control of the recirculating
chiller via the emission spectrometer.

PlasmaQuant 9100 (Elite) Function and design
19
Figure8 Gas and cooling water connections
1 Water filter in the cooling circuit 2 Argon connections
3 "IN" cooling water inlet 4 Connection for oxygen as auxiliary
gas (optional)
5 "OUT" cooling water outlet
Argon is used for the torch, the nebulizer and for purging the spectrometer. The purging
gas is then directed via the cone as a counter gas for axial observation to avoid heavy
strain to the cone and plasma window via the plasma torch. Oxygen can be optionally
connected as an auxiliary gas.
Plug-in connectors are used for the gas connections. Hoses are pushed into the connec-
tor as far as possible and are thus securely fastened. To release the connections, push
the blue ring inwards and pull the hose out at the same time.
Figure9 Plug-in connectors for gas connections
The hoses for cooling water are also equipped with quick couplings. When connecting
the hoses, push the connection pieces on the hoses into the sockets all the way until
they engage with a click. When releasing the connections, push the ring on the socket
back and pull the hose out of the connection. The valves in the quick couplings prevent
the cooling water from flowing out.

Function and design PlasmaQuant 9100 (Elite)
20
Type plates are located at the top on the connection panel and behind the door of the
plasma compartment. The type plate contains the following information:
Figure10Type plate
1 Manufacturer address 2 Trade name
3 Electrical connection data 4 CE marking
5 WEEE device identification 6 Serial number
7 Note: First read the user manual,
then operate the device
8 Protection class
9 Trademark
1 2 3
Figure11Device rear
1 Air filter 2 Exhaust vent
3 Fan