Triple-quad ICP mass spectrometer with laser ablation system and automated matrix removal system

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We request instrumentation for a new ICP-MS laboratory that will be operated by three working groups, and will be open to other scientists on a cooperative basis. The requested instrumentation consists of 1) a triple-quad ICP mass spectrometer (TQ-ICP-MS), 2) a laser ablation system equipped with an ultra-high vacuum (UHV) cell, 3) a laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) system connected to the laser, and 4) an automated matrix removal / preconcentration system mainly for seawater samples. The instruments will replace the 20 year old laser ablation ICP-MS laboratory of our faculty, thereby meeting new analytical requirements and ensuring that the laboratory will be ready for the future. A major strength of our project is the integration of the different instruments into one laboratory for joint usage by distinct groups, each with a different analytical focus. This maximizes efficient usage of the equipment and increases scientific output. The new laboratory will allow for projects hitherto not possible and will open new analytical horizons: 1) The planned connection of the laser ablation system to an existing helium mass spectrometer as well as to a LIBS system is a new and innovative approach for our ongoing and future thermochronology-based projects. The in-situ analyses permit double- or triple-dating of single crystals, and simultaneous analysis of light elements that are difficult or impossible to analyze by ICP-MS, such as halogens. 2) The new laser instrumentation will allow for analyses at high spatial resolution and mapping of trace element distributions in single crystals, as required by some of our projects. 3) ICP-MS analyses of trace and ultratrace elements in seawater, pore water, and hydrothermal vent fluids become increasingly important for our work. This will be possible with the requested automated preconcentration system for online reduction of matrix load and increase of trace element concentrations. Overall a TQ-ICP-MS is the state-of-the-art analytical technique for trace element analysis on liquids and laser-ablated solids, with high innovative potential for new research developments. Its hallmarks are high sensitivity, low detection limits, excellent removal of mass interferences, and rapid mass scanning.