Trace Analysis Of Mercury

The Analytik Jena ‘mercur’ atomic fluorescence spectrometer from Lambda Advanced Technology is a compact system specially optimized for the complete, cost-efficient determination of mercury traces to the sub-ppt level.

The ‘mercur’ combines atomic fluorescence with the cold vapour technique. This converts mercury into the gaseous state, almost completely eliminating interferences and matrix effects to give excellent accuracy and low detection limits.

An optional autosampler makes the ‘mercur’ highly automated and easy to operate, with a high sample throughput. Fast analysis is achieved by using continuous flow operation with or without the autosampler plus the unique FBR routine (Fast Baseline Return), which minimizes measurement time by increasing argon flow. Automated, intelligent gas-liquid control ensures minimum reagent consumption and short measurement times in various operating modes.

The ‘mercur’ can be adapted to varied analytical tasks, by choosing between three enrichment modes: no enrichment, simple enrichment, and cascade enrichment. The cascade enrichment feature, compliant to EPA 1631 requirements, comprises two coupled gold collectors, which ensures clean separation of the matrix and prevents quenching effects - thus providing maximum dependability even with complex samples. Enrichment times can be varied to match the sample matrix or the expected mercury concentration range.

The system is extremely safe through the use of a bubble sensor. If a liquid threatens to spill into the system, this sensor causes the valves to close, and the liquid is automatically transferred to the
waste container. Positioned between the gas-liquid separator and a specially optimized drying membrane, it protects the gold collector and the fluorescence cell against contamination.