Metrohm Inline Sample Preparation (MISP) Techniques Strengthen the Professional Ion Chromatography Range

The 850 Professional IC and 858 Sample Processor were released last year by Metrohm and were the first IC instruments to contain Intelligence as standard within the newly developed hardware and brand new software MagIC Net.

Metrohm Inline Sample Preparation (MISP) techniques are the result of liquid handling experiences from all Metrohm product lines and are now incorporated into the Professional IC range. Fully automated inline sample preparation techniques such as ultra-filtration and the patented dialysis have been available for a number of years from Metrohm but improvements such as Intelligent Dosino liquid handling, new accessories and the MagIC Net software allow for logical decisions and simplified time programs.

Once a representative sample is placed on the sample rack then the whole procedure is automated which minimizes manual handling steps saving time and money as well as improving the precision and reliability of results. Of course as soon as one automates a procedure then this improves the sample throughput and allows the IC to work during the night or at the weekend when the lab is not manned by personnel.

The use of ultra-filtration and dialysis protects the analytical column from moderately and heavily loaded samples respectively without having to manually filter each sample. The use of headspace filter vials is extremely costly and contributes to exaggerated running costs.

Metrohm Inline Matrix Elimination allows alkaline or acidic samples to be neutralized otherwise the matrix often masks the peaks of interest; by eliminating the matrix one is able to obtain a clean chromatogram for evaluation.

Metrohm Inline Pre-concentration and Inline Calibration allow detection limits approaching single figure ng l^-1 to be realized essential in the fine chemical, power or semi conductor industries. Again Dosino liquid handling allows for fast accurate transfer of sample and standards with a resolution down to 1µl, the use of buffer tubing and external rinsing stations for the autosampler needle prevents cross contamination. The option to use custom racks on the autosampler and use sample containers directly prevents handling contamination of the sample.