Evaluating the performance of the OneNeb Series 2 Nebulizer with PerkinElmer Optima 7/8x00 Series ICP-OES systems

Importance of the topic

The nebulizer is a critical component in any ICP-OES system, directly affecting sensitivity, detection limits, precision, washout, and matrix tolerance. Innovations in nebulizer design can extend application range from simple aqueous samples to high-dissolved-solids and organic matrices, reduce sample carry-over, and accelerate throughput in QA/QC and research laboratories.

Objectives and study overview

This study provides a competitive comparison of the Agilent OneNeb Series 2 nebulizer against PerkinElmer-recommended concentric and cross-flow designs (Meinhard Type A/C, GemCone, GemTip) when used with PerkinElmer Optima 7300 DV and 8000 DV ICP-OES instruments. Key performance metrics include sensitivity, detection limits, precision, washout rate, and long-term stability across aqueous, high-TDS, and organic sample matrices.

Methodology and instrumentation

Tests followed PerkinElmer instrument commissioning procedures, including:

• Sensitivity and detection limit: optimal gas flows determined for each nebulizer by Mn intensity tests, followed by three-sigma detection limit calculations in axial and radial views.
• Precision: RSD from multiple replicates (n=10–20) at defined read times.
• Washout: timed switching between high-concentration and blank solutions using an Agilent SVS1 valve.
• Long-term stability: 8-hour drift test with 5 % NaCl in 2 % HNO₃ and internal standardization using Y.
• Organic matrix assessment: metallo-organic standard in A-Solv solvent comparing detection limits, sensitivity, and precision.

Optimal nebulizer gas flows ranged from 0.55 L/min for OneNeb Series 2 to 0.70 L/min for GemTip, balancing intensity and precision.

Used Instrumentation

• PerkinElmer Optima 7300 DV and Optima 8000 DV ICP-OES systems
• Agilent OneNeb Series 2 nebulizer (EFTE construction, removable inlet capillary)
• Meinhard Type A and C concentric glass nebulizers
• PerkinElmer GemCone high-solids and GemTip cross-flow nebulizers
• Scott cyclonic spray chambers, alumina injectors, peristaltic pumps, Agilent SVS1 switching valve, and argon saturator accessory

Main results and discussion

• Sensitivity: OneNeb Series 2 delivered up to 4× greater emission intensity in aqueous matrices and nearly 3× in 5 % NaCl high-TDS samples compared to the nearest competitor.
• Detection limits: Axial DLs improved by factors of 2–10 (e.g., Tl 0.25 µg/L vs 1.3 µg/L), radial DLs met or surpassed PerkinElmer specifications across all tested elements.
• Precision: OneNeb consistently achieved ≤1 % RSD in axial view for aqueous and high-TDS tests; organic matrix RSDs remained <1.5 % for critical elements.
• Washout: OneNeb achieved <0.1 % baseline carry-over within 20 s, up to 30 s faster than glass concentric and GemTip nebulizers.
• Long-term stability: Over 8 h with a 5 % NaCl matrix, OneNeb exhibited <0.7 % drift vs >1.7 % for GemCone, confirming resistance to blockage and robustness.
• Organic samples: OneNeb matched or exceeded GemCone in detection limits and achieved up to 10× greater sensitivity for wear metals in kerosene-type solvents.

Benefits and practical applications

• Universal nebulizer for aqueous, high-solids, strong acids (e.g., HF), and organic solvents.
• Improved sample throughput due to rapid washout and stable long-term performance.
• Enhanced sensitivity and lower detection limits support trace analysis in environmental, petrochemical, and materials research.
• Inert EFTE construction and replaceable capillary reduce downtime and maintenance costs.

Future trends and potential applications

Continued growth in multi-matrix analyses will drive demand for robust, universal nebulizers. Further integration with automated sample handling and real-time flow control could optimize performance for emerging challenges such as high-matrix biomedical and advanced materials studies. Adaptations for ICP-MS and miniaturized plasma sources may expand the reach of flow-blurring technology.

Conclusion

The Agilent OneNeb Series 2 nebulizer offers a single solution for diverse sample types, outperforming dedicated glass concentric and inert designs on PerkinElmer ICP-OES platforms. Its superior sensitivity, low detection limits, precision, rapid washout, and long-term stability simplify method development and boost laboratory productivity.

References

• Moffett J, Russell G, Lener JP. Evaluation of a novel nebulizer using an ICP-OES. Agilent Technologies Application Note 5990-8340EN, 2011.
• Alfonso M, Gañán-Calvo AM. Enhanced liquid atomization: From flow-focusing to flow-blurring. Appl Phys Lett. 2005;86:214101.
• Bings NH, Orlandini von Niessen JO, Schaper JN. Liquid sample introduction in ICP-AES and ICP-MS—Critical review. Spectrochim Acta B. 2014;100:14–37.
• PerkinElmer. Service Data Bulletin ‑ Optima 2X00 Instrument Commissioning Procedure. OPT2003F.STN, 2005.
• PerkinElmer. Service Data Bulletin ‑ Optima 5000 Series DV Instrument Commissioning. OPT5001B.STN, 2005.
• Kulikov E. Determination of major elements in methanol using the Agilent 4200 MP-AES with External Gas Control Module. Agilent Application Note 5991-6469EN, 2015.
• Hilligoss D. Analysis of wear metals and additive elements in oil using Optima 8300 ICP-OES. PerkinElmer Application Note D-5892A, 2011.