Why is ICP-OES seawater analysis so important?
For every marine aquarist, knowing the exact seawater composition is absolutely essential. Without this knowledge, it’s difficult—if not impossible—to maintain a healthy and stable marine aquarium.
One of the most effective methods used in seawater analysis is ICP-OES (Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy)—a powerful analytical technique that uses plasma to excite atoms and measure the light they emit. Its exceptional precision allows for accurate determination of element concentrations in seawater.
But that’s not the whole story! 🚀
What many people don’t realize is that the precision of ICP-OES seawater analysis can be enhanced even further—think of it like tuning a high-performance engine! With the right upgrades, such as DSOI (Dual Side-On Interface) technology, the results become even more accurate, helping aquarists better care for their tanks. In this article, we’ll show you how.
Seawater – a Challenge in ICP-OES Analysis
Seawater analysis using ICP-OES poses significant challenges due to the complexity of the matrix. The main component is sodium chloride (NaCl), present in very high concentrations. This high salt content can interfere with measurements in various ways:
- Spectral interferences – Salt can distort the emission signals of other elements, making them harder to identify precisely.
- Instrument contamination – Salt deposits can accumulate on internal parts, affecting stability and requiring more frequent maintenance.
- Signal suppression – An excess of sodium ions can reduce the intensity of signals from other elements, lowering the method’s sensitivity.
How Can We Improve ICP-OES Seawater Analysis?
Although ICP-OES is recognized for its high analytical precision, opportunities remain to further refine its performance. One of the most innovative advancements in this area is the Dual Side-On Interface (DSOI) technology, which significantly enhances both sensitivity and accuracy in complex matrices such as seawater.
What is DSOI (Dual Side-On Interface)?
DSOI is a state-of-the-art
advancement in how plasma emission is observed. Traditional systems observe the plasma from only one direction—vertically or horizontally. DSOI allows simultaneous observation from both sides of the plasma, greatly enhancing sensitivity—by as much as 20 times in certain cases!
By collecting light through two optical interfaces, DSOI technology ensures more efficient signal capture and reduces losses caused by signal attenuation.
Benefits of DSOI ICP-OES in Seawater Analysis
- Enhanced sensitivity – Enables the detection of trace elements, even at ultra-low concentrations.
- Faster analysis – Speeds up multi-element measurement in seawater samples.
- Exceptional accuracy – Delivers highly precise results, perfect for demanding seawater testing.
Summary
DSOI technology takes ICP-OES seawater analysis to the next level—offering the most reliable data for marine aquarists. And as we know, accurate and consistent analysis is the key to stable marine aquarium.
About author
Magdalena Metzler
Privately, I am a mother and a lover of nature and sport. My main interest is quantum chemistry, which hides a whole lot of unsolved mysteries and connections, which is extremely exciting from a scientific point of view.
In my scientific career, I have conducted international projects focused on innovative solutions for many branches of business, e.g. automotive, construction, and now, of course, marine aquaristics.
Working at Reef Factory gave me a passion for marine aquaristics, which I can develop every day, building a chemistry department and creating products that will help aquarists take care of tanks and ensure the highest safety of animals. One of the most exciting memories of working at Reef Factory is the commissioning of the ICP-OES spectrometer, which analyzes the elemental composition of seawater. The method of analysis in ICP is based on an analytical technique, which is a combination of my passion for quantum chemistry and marine aquaristics.
I hope you find my articles on ReefPedia interesting and helpful! Happy reading :))