Auto-sampling System with Inline Matrix Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Matrix effects from high total dissolved solids in samples pose challenges for accurate determination in inductively coupled plasma spectrometry, requiring high dilution that is undesirable for achieving excellent detection limits.
Innovation Solution
An auto-sampling system with syringe and valve configurations allows for automatic inline matrix matching of calibration standards to samples, using three independent syringes and a valve system to dynamically introduce carrier, diluent, and ultrapure stock matrix flows, controlled by a computing system to achieve precise fluid flow management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If high dilution is used to reduce matrix effects from high total dissolved solids, then measurement accuracy is improved, but detection limits deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically changes the matrix composition parameters of calibration standards to match the sample matrix characteristics. By adjusting the concentration and composition of matrix components in calibration standards, the system achieves accurate quantification without requiring high dilution, thus maintaining both measurement accuracy and detection limits.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary matrix matching by analyzing sample matrix characteristics and pre-adjusting calibration standards to match those characteristics before actual quantification. This preliminary action ensures that matrix effects are compensated in advance, eliminating the need for high dilution while maintaining accurate measurement.
2Measurement precision
If manual matrix matching is performed, then measurement accuracy is improved, but operation complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic matrix matching without manual intervention. The computing system automatically analyzes sample matrix characteristics, determines appropriate calibration standard compositions, and adjusts the matrix components accordingly. This self-service capability eliminates manual matrix matching operations while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical operations of matrix matching with automated computing system control. The computing system calculates and controls the composition and flow rates of matrix components in calibration standards, substituting manual preparation and adjustment operations with automated electronic control.
3Measurement precision
If multiple syringes and valves are used for automatic matrix matching, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses multiple syringes and valves that serve multiple functions. The same syringes and valves are used for introducing both sample components and matrix components, and for both calibration standards and samples. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, managing device complexity while enabling accurate automatic matrix matching.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to an auto-sampling system with syringe, valve configurations, and control logic that allow automatic, inline matrix matching of calibration standards to samples. In implementations, this accomplished with three independent syringes connected to a valve system to dynamically introduce carrier, diluent, and ultrapure stock matrix flows for each blank, standard, or sample.