elemental analysis

The Thermo Scientific iCAP Q

Product Specifications
ICP-MS has been developed with
groundbreaking technology to
enable advanced high-
performance analysis combined
with total reliability and ultra-
flexibility. The radical design
simplifies the user experience
and dramatically improves
laboratory efficiency.

Thermo Scientific
iCAP Q ICP-MS
Dramatically Different ICP-MS

The Thermo Scientific iCAP Q ICP-MS With three models available, the iCAP Q
offers dramatically improved levels of ICP-MS is the ideal tool for a wide range of
performance, reliability, ease of use and applications and market sectors, from routine
flexibility compared to its predecessor, the 24/7 analysis to demanding high quality
Thermo Scientific XSERIES 2. The iCAP Q is research.
the result of a series of technological and
useability improvements derived from
Thermo Scientific's wide of range of
analytical instruments.

Part of Thermo Fisher Scientific

Product Specifications Which iCAP Q ICP-MS? iCAP Qc: High sensitivity cell mode
performance
iCAP Qs: Demanding applications
made simple
iCAP Qa: Routine 24/7 workhorse The iCAP Qc ICP-MS is configured for high Equipped with an acid resistant sample
For laboratories upgrading from AA or quality analyses in routine, high throughput introduction system and platinum tipped
ICP-OES. The entry level iCAP Qa ICP-MS laboratories such as those specializing in cones, the iCAP Qs is configured for high
provides multi-elemental analytical environmental analysis, food quality control purity applications. With the high
capabilities without the need to invest in and geochemical exploration. With performance interface as standard the iCAP
collision cell technology. With a footprint of proprietary QCell technology, single mode Qs is ideally suited to the analysis of trace
0.5 m2, existing equipment can be simply analysis is possible across the entire mass and ultra-trace concentrations in high purity
replaced with an iCAP Qa ICP-MS – without range using pure He as a collision gas. The process chemicals in the semiconductor
requiring any rearrangement of the existing benefits of a single analysis mode are clear: industry.
laboratory bench. A robust sample reduced instrument set-up and no mode In semiconductor cleanrooms where lab
introduction system suited for routine switching delays leading to increased space is at a premium, the iCAP Qs – at
environmental applications and an advanced sample throughput and reproducibility. only 66 cm wide, the smallest bench-top
matrix tolerant interface minimise routine Unlike instruments that require the use of ICP-MS available – is the ideal partner. The
maintenance, providing a reliable, multi- multiple analysis modes for the analysis of iCAP Q RF generator achieves cool plasma
elemental laboratory workhorse. routine environmental, clinical and food without requiring a grounded shield –
While classed as an entry level system, samples, sensitivity in He QCell KED mode improving reliability and lowering running
the iCAP Qa retains all of the advanced for the low mass elements on the iCAP Qc costs. Cool plasma, like any other analysis
reliability and ease of use features common is more than sufficient while higher mode in the Qtegra software, can be
to the iCAP Q range, i.e. peltier cooled spray sensitivity is there where it’s needed at high combined in multimode labbooks for
chamber, self-aligning injector, bayonet masses. He QCell mode provides complete flexibility in analysis and improved
fitting torch, lightning fast RF generator, predictable, reproducible interference sample throughput. The iCAP Qs is equipped
bench height access for routine reduction in all sample types. Through the with the full range of mass flow controllers
maintenance and high ion transmission with use of intelligent sample introduction, – both for gas delivery to the ion source and
the QCell ion guide. With One-Click setup analysis times are radically reduced thereby sample introduction system and to the
and pre-installed protocol compliant driving sample throughput and providing a collision and reaction capable QCell – ready
analysis templates within the Qtegra rapid return on investment. for the most challenging analytical tasks in
elemental analysis software suite, any With the optional high performance complicated industrial sample matrices. The
analyst will soon feel like an ICP-MS expert. interface, the class leading iCAP Qc ICP-MS ultimate performance with the ultimate
When analytical requirements require is the analytical solution to high end flexibility.
added flexibility or expanded elemental applications. For example, the high
ranges, an on-site upgrade pathway is elemental sensitivity and low backgrounds
available to the next level of performance: make the iCAP Qc the ideal instrument for
the iCAP Qc. coupled applications, for example in
speciation and laser ablation studies.
Control of He (for laser) and O2 (for organic
mobile phases in LC applications) are
possible from optional mass flow controllers
located within the iCAP Q casing. With
plug-in software control of commonly used
ICP-MS accessories direct from within the
Qtegra software platform, there is no need
for additional software packages to control
accessories or to perform specialised data
handling – a complete software workflow
within a single software package!
Sample Introduction Spraychamber Torch and Torch Holder
The sample introduction system on the High purity quartz (iCAP Qa or iCAP Qc Push-in, demountable single piece quartz
iCAP Q ICP-MS is positioned directly in front models) or PFA (iCAP Qs) low-volume, torch with connection free gas supply.
of the seated user: all parts are within baffled cyclonic spray chamber, efficiently ‘Tulip’ design for improved plasma stability.
arm's reach. With bench height, open filters out larger aerosol droplets for All connectivity (argon gas supplies and
access to the iCAP Q ICP-MS sample improved plasma stability. Reduced surface plasma ignition) designed into the holder,
introduction system, specialized sample areas when compared to larger Scott style reducing torch complexity and improving
introduction systems (e.g. desolvating spraychambers improve sample washout. usability.
nebulizers etc) can be easily placed directly Compatible with all 6 mm OD nebulizers.
Injector
next to the ICP source.
Peltier Cooler Proprietary screw-in, self-aligning injector
The standard sample introduction
Water cooled peltier cooling of the spray for ease of use and reliability. 2.5 mm ID
system consists of high quality, robust
chamber (-10° to +20°C, assuming coolant (internal diameter) quartz as standard to
components. Low flow nebulizers, cyclonic
water at 18 °C) for optimum stability during eliminate blocking and to provide robust
spray chambers and wide bore injectors
the analysis of aqueous and organic sample sample decomposition in the plasma. Easily
ensure the highest plasma robustness in
types. Software control for ease of use and removable without effecting torch position
samples containing up to 0.2 % total
flexibility. for improved robustness and reduced
dissolved solids. All sample pathways are
maintenance. Optional internal diameters
minimized for rapid sample uptake / Plasma and injector materials are available for all
washout and reduced memory effects. A
sample requirements.
water cooled peltier is supplied as standard RF Generator
on all models to ensure the highest sample Argon ICP ion source with new digital, solid Plasma TV
introduction stability. state RF generator with dynamic frequency Remote monitoring of plasma status via
Designed for all user skill levels, impedance matching to the plasma at ~27 camera.
rebuild of the sample introduction system MHz. Unparalleled plasma robustness,
after routine maintenance is simple and enabling high plasma stability even for Gas Control
straightforward. highly volatile organic solvents. Coolant, auxiliary and nebulizer gas are
The power range is PC controlled and controlled by mass flow controllers as
Peristaltic Pump standard. Two additional mass flow
continuously variable from 500 W to 1600
Compact, low pulsation, 12 roller, 4 channel controllers are available as options.
W. Low ion energy spread for optimum ion
mini-pump with metal free rollers for
focusing and transmission is obtained
improved reliability. Three stop flared pump
without the need of a grounded shield
tubing is standard for reduced cost of
between torch and load coil. Standard
ownership. Integrated bubble sensors on
operation at 1550 W for a robust plasma
the spray chamber waste line for improved
and optimum sample decomposition.
reliability.
Load Coil
Nebulizer
Silver coated copper load coil (water cooled)
High performance, concentric nebulizers,
for improved lifetime and reliable plasma
glass (iCAP Qa) or PFA (iCAP Qc and iCAP
ignition. Accessible at bench height for
Qs) with ~0.4mL/min sample consumption.
ease of maintenance.
Operated in combination with the mini-
pump for routine applications and in self-
aspiration mode for research applications.
Product Specifications Interface Slide valve Quadrupole
Unique front opening interface provides PC controlled. Defaults to closed position Virtual hyperbolic field rods, driven by a
rapid, simultaneous access to cones and when plasma is off or in the event of a solid state, 2 MHz supply ensures low
extraction lens. Bench height access power failure, maintaining vacuum in the abundance sensitivity (< 0.5 ppm at m-1
facilitates routine maintenance of cone analyzer housing. (m= 238U)). All new electronics provide class
exchange, reducing complexity and leading mass stability (< ± 0.025 u / 8
minimizing downtime. Cones are rapidly
Ion Optics hours). Scan speed: >90000 u/s (Li-U-Li in
removed by a single (magnetic) tool while The iCAP Q ICP-MS transfer lens system < 5 ms, 100 µs at each mass). Mass range:
the extraction lens is bayonet mounted for includes a unique 90 ° ion optics system 4 - 290 u. In scan, user definable resolution
easy handling. providing high ion transmission across the for improved dynamic range and abundance
entire mass range – the RAPID lens: Right sensitivity. Mass calibration assessed and
Sample Cone Angluar Positive Ion Deflection. High ion automatically updated when necessary
Field proven 1.1 mm diameter orifice for transmission efficiency is enabled by a low through One Click Setup.
minimal deposition when analyzing high ion energy spread resulting from the new,
matrix samples. Solid Ni construction as shield-free ICP source and precise Detector
standard, Pt tipped as option (standard on alignment of the individual lens New long lifetime detector designed for
iCAP Qs) for increased durability. components. The open lens stack eliminates ICP-MS requirements. Simultaneous
lens cleaning maintenance and a completely analog/pulse counting over 4 orders of
Skimmer Cone off-axis design together with QCell magnitude for improved reliability. Dwell
Extensive computer modeling and technology delivers a class leading times of 100 µs in both detection modes.
experience in advanced materials background noise of < 1cps in all modes. Linear dynamic detection range:
technology has been utilized to define the Mass response is optimized for increased > 9 orders of magnitude (< 1 - > 1∙109 cps)
skimmer tip operating temperature, low mass sensitivity. accurately measures traces to major matrix
minimizing matrix deposition and prolonging
ions in a single scan. Intelligent over range
periods between maintenance. Narrow RAPID Lens
protection with One Click Setup for
0.5 mm orifice for protection of the 90° cylindrical ion lens operating at a single
automated assessment and optimization of
subsequent lens stack. Gas dynamics fixed voltage. High ion transmission
operating voltages and cross-calibration.
modelling and experience in ICP-MS efficiency by focusing ions of divergent
Cradle design for ease of detector
interface technology led to a proprietary angles, leading to high sensitivity in all
exchange without requiring cable
skimmer insert design to control the plasma modes. Neutrals pass directly out of the 90°
connections inside the high vacuum
boundary and reduce memory effects from lens without interacting with an active lens
analyzer housing.
previously analyzed samples. A range of surface for improved reliability and reduced
inserts are available allowing the user to maintenance. Vacuum System
balance the needs of matrix resistance
QCell Three stage pumping with split-flow turbo
against absolute sensitivity.
pump for extremely fast gas displacement.
Non-consumable due to completely off-axis
Interface Pump In the event of a power failure, high vacuum
(interface - collision cell) to ion beam.
External, high performance pump to provide is maintained and the turbo pump
Smallest cell volume in any ICP-MS for fast
backing to the turbo pumps and evacuation automatically restarts as soon as power is
gas exchange, with switching and
of the expansion region for improved restored. Stable vacuum (< 1∙10-6 mbar) is
stabilization times of <10s. Proprietary
sampling from the plasma. Supplied with usually obtained in less than 15 minutes
flatapole rod system acts as an ion guide in
synthetic, chemically stable, temperature pump time for fast return to service after
non-gas mode while in He KED mode it
resistant rotary pump oil as standard for routine maintenance.
provides powerful interference reduction for
improved sample matrix resistance and a clearer mass spectrum in all sample Electrical connection of ion
reduced maintenance. Rotary pump can be types. Unique design allows low mass ions optical lenses
positioned away from the instrument for to pass through the cell in He KED mode, All electrical connections to lenses inside
convenience and supplied with an optional enabling detection of Li, Be and B. the analyzer chamber are achieved via field
acoustic cover.
proven, gold spring contacts mounted into
Extraction Lens the chamber lid, eliminating wiring and
Single extraction lens operated at low minimizing EMC issues and RF leakage.
voltages for optimum ion extraction and
focusing before entry into the RAPID lens.
Situated before the slide valve on the same
hinged interface door as sample and
skimmer cones for easy access without
breaking vacuum.
Instrument Control One Click Setup. Mass flow controllers of iCAP Q ICP-MS Accessories
The iCAP Q ICP-MS communicates with the 0-250 and 0-1000 mL/min are available to
control PC via an optimized data acquisition provide optimum accuracy of gas delivery in Autosamplers
system with a dedicated onboard processor different applications. The complete range of CETAC and ESI
for high data transfer rates over a high autosamplers are compatible with the
QCell iCAP Q ICP-MS. The autosamplers
speed USB connection. 'Online' display of
The QCell ion guide, as used in the iCAP Qa, supported range from small fully-enclosed
fast transient signals (e.g. in
can be field upgraded to provide He kinetic autosamplers for use in semiconductor
chromatographic and laser ablation
energy discrimination (KED) cell capabilities laboratories to large multi-rack systems
applications) is achieved without any gaps
for clearer ICP-MS spectra and subsequent used in high throughput environmental and
in data acquisition.
improvements in detection power for exploration geology laboratories.
Control electronics interfered isotopes in all samples.
State of the art control electronic boards Autosampler housing
Additional QCell gas MFC A dedicated autosampler (AS) housing is
are mounted directly next to the required
For samples requiring the ultimate in available for the iCAP Q ICP-MS. The AS
analyzer component, minimizing cabling to
flexibility, a second QCell mass flow housing is mounted directly onto the side of
provide a clean internal area for easier
controller can be installed in the iCAP Q the iCAP Q ICP-MS and is compatible with
service access and minimum electrical
to allow the use of e.g. reactive gas or all standard iCAP Q sample introduction
interference.
reactive gas mixtures in the QCell. systems. Four rack random access
Desktop PC autosamplers from ESI and CETAC can be
Organics Kit
Supplied with all iCAP Q models, provides installed inside the AS housing. It is
fully automated control of the iCAP Q Organic solvents (e.g. as used in reverse designed for use in laboratories where there
system by Qtegra in an industry standard phase LC applications) can be routinely is the risk of contamination from the
Windows® software environment. analyzed by utilizing the organics kit laboratory environment that could lead to
comprising of a 1.0 mm quartz injector, a increased false positives and potentially
250 mL/min additional gas MFC and organic expensive forced re-analysis. A positive air
Optional iCAP Q Components solvent resistant waste pump tubing. pressure of ULPA filtered air supplied to the
AS housing provides a clean, safe
Nebulizers Acid Resistant Kit
environment for samples before and during
The standard cyclonic spray chamber For the analysis of aggressive sample
analysis. The iCAP Q is the first ICP-MS
accepts all types of nebulizers with a 6mm matrices, for example HF or H2SO4, this kit
system to take care of the sample before
outside diameter. The PFA nebulizer used on contains a PFA cyclonic spray chamber, a
it's even analyzed!
the iCAP Q includes a user exchangeable 2.0 mm ID sapphire injector and Pt tipped
reinforced sample probe. sample and skimmer cones. Pt injectors are Laser Ablation
also available for the very lowest Al and Cr Laser ablation systems from CETAC, NWR
PFA Spray chamber background equivalent concentrations and Photon Machines are directly supported
While standard on the iCAP Qs, a PFA (BECs). either via the I/O port or from a dedicated
cyclonic spray chamber is an option on the plug-in within the Qtegra control software.
iCAP Qa and iCAP Qc to provide increased Speciation Kits
By working closely with these suppliers the
resistance to high levels of mineral acids or The iCAP Q ICP-MS can be coupled to a
iCAP Q provides a single operating platform
when the very lowest detection limits are range of IC, HPLC and GC systems to allow
for truly routine laser ablation analyses.
required. for speciation analysis of elements in a
variety of sample matrices and applications.
Injectors A dedicated I/O port is provided on the right
Injectors in a range of internal diameters hand side of the iCAP Q casing for the
(e.g. 1 mm for the analysis of organic straightforward connection of accessories.
solvents) as well as materials (e.g. Pt for Kits for specific Thermo Scientific and
ultra high purity analysis of semiconductor Dionex chromatography systems are
process chemicals) are available. available. These kits consist of all the
necessary parts and, uniquely in ICP-MS,
Additional gas MFC dedicated software plug-ins within the
Up to two additional mass flow controllers Qtegra iCAP Q control software, which
(MFCs) can be added to an iCAP Q system to allow for complete bi-directional control of
allow the introduction of gases into the spray coupled systems and remove the need for
chamber (for example O2 for the analysis of an additional software package.
organic solvents) or to supply gases for
coupled accessories (for example to add He
during laser ablation analyses). Both MFCs
are fully integrated into the iCAP Q control
software and can be optimized as part of the
Product Specifications Specification Table

Specification iCAP Q Series

iCAP Qa iCAP Qc iCAP Qs

STD Mode

Sensitivity (kcps/ppb)

Lib
7 40 50 80
59 Cob 60 100 200
115 In b 150 220 400
238 bU 200 300 500

Detection Limits (ppt)a

Be
9 < 0.5 < 0.5 < 0.5
115 In < 0.1 < 0.1 < 0.1
209 Bi < 0.1 < 0.1 < 0.1

Oxides (%)
CeO/Ceb <2 <2 <2

Double Charged (%)

Ba++/Ba+b <3 <3 <3

Background (cps)
m/z 4.5b <1 <1 <1

Stability (%RSD)
Short Termb <2 (10 min) <2 (10 min) <2 (10 min)
Long Term <3 (2 h) <3 (2 h) <3 (2 h)

Isotope Ratio Precision (%RSD)

107 Ag/109Ag <0.1 <0.1 <0.1

He Cell Mode

Sensitivity (kcps/ppb)
Cob 30 50

Background (cps)
m/z 4.5b <0.5 <0.5

: Typical values, dependent on cleanliness of chemicals

a

: Demonstrated on installation
b
Site Requirements

Environmental

Temperature Range 15-35 °C

Rate of Change <2°C/h
Humidity Range 20-80% (non-condensing)

Utilities

Electrical Supply Three phase, 230 (± 10%), 50/60Hz, 6A per phase

Cooling water Supply temperature 15-25 °C, opt. 21 °C
Flow rate >5.5 L/min
Pressure 0.25 - 0.55 MPa (2.5 - 5.5 bar; 36 - 80 psi)
Argon gas supply Purity >99.996 %
Flow rate >20 L/min
Pressure 0.6 MPa (6.0 bar; 90 psi )
Cell gas supply Purity >99.999 %
Flow rate >10 mL/min
Pressure 1 bar (15 psi)
Plasma exhaust Port Dimensions 60.3 mm (recommended 63 mm ID ducting)
Flow rate (63 mm ID ducting) 6 - 8 m/s (67 - 90 m3/h; 39.4 - 53.0 cfm)
Heat exhaust Port Dimensions 60.3 mm (recommended 63 mm ID ducting)
Flow rate (63 mm ID ducting) 4 - 6 m/s (45 - 67 m3/h; 26.5 - 39.4 cfm)

Model configurations

iCAP Qa iCAP Qc iCAP Qs

Nebulizer Borosilicate glass PFA PFA

Spray chamber Quartz, cyclonic Quartz, cyclonic PFA, cyclonic
Torch Quartz, demountable, no shield Quartz, demountable, no shield Quartz, demountable, no shield
Injector Quartz, 2.5 mm ID Quartz, 2.5 mm ID Sapphire, 2.0 mm ID
Option: 1.0 and 2.0 mm ID Option: 1.0 and 2.0 mm ID Option: 1.0 mm and 2.0 mm Pt
Interface Ni, high matrix robustness Ni, high matrix robustness Pt, high performance
Option: Pt, high matrix robustness Option: Ni, high performance
Ar Mass Flow Controllers (MFCs) Three Three Four
Additional Mass Flow Controllers Option (Two) Option (Two) Option (One)
(e.g. O2 for organics, He for laser)
He Cell Gas MFC Option Yes Yes
Additional Cell MFC
e.g. H2/He, O2 etc Option Option Yes
Product Specifications

Dimensions of iCAP Q system (mm)

Dimensions of iCAP Q system with optional autosampler housing (mm)

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