Enhanced Stability Mode (ESM) adjusts the lens parameters to improve signal stability against continuous high-matrix load.
Tuning solution: Tuning solution is a solution used for general tuning of ICP-MS on a daily basis. Typically it contains some elements at 1 to 10 ng/mL of concentration.
Conditioning solution: Conditioning solution contains high-matrix substance whose ingredients are similar to that of analytical samples to be analyzed. The recipe differs between analytical applications.
(Internal standard solution is also required for some application.)
ESM requires introduction of high-matrix sample, conditioning solution, for short period (ca. 30 min.). Conditioning solution conditions the sampling cone and skimmer cone to reduce signal drift caused by high-matrix sample loads. During the introduction of the solution, ESM monitored sensitivity variation with various lens voltage setting. The sensitivity drifts are analyzed and a lens tuning which delivers highest stability is selected.
Prepare the above solutions, turn on ICP and finish startup sequence.
In the [Settings] dialog box, turn on [Enable Enhanced Stability Tune Mode] from [Options] - [System Functions].
Conditioning: "Conditioning" can be executed from the Dashboard Pane and the results will be saved as system-wide parameters. On the Dashboard Pane, right click on the ICP-MS icon to open [Conditioning settings] dialog box. After setting "Peri-pump" and selecting target application, click "Add to Queue". The conditioning sequence starts automatically.
Batch Setting: Prepare an ESM-ready batch as follows. Open [Configure Batch Acquisition] dialog box to select the [Enhanced Stability Mode]. On the Tune Mode Pane, please select the [Plasma Mode] at the left side frame.
Run conditioning sequence in the following cases:
When the instrument is installed.
When the sampling cone, skimmer cone, or lens set is cleaned or changed.
Be aware of the following considerations about ESM.
If the sampling cone or skimmer cone is damaged, ESM will not work correctly.
When sampling cone and/or skimmer cone are renewed, signal drift may be larger until their condition stabilized.
Use of autosampler is highly recommended.
At the current state, ESM is available for only limited applications.
The term "Stable" here means a tuning condition in which the instrument has stable operation and allows accurate analysis for high-matrix samples.