Hydrocarbon Processing - December 2021 - 19

Process Controls, Instrumentation and Automation
While single quadrupole ICP-MS is typically capable of
measuring sulfur concentrations in the high ppb or even ppt
range, triple quadrupole ICP-MS systems can easily meet detection
limits in the low or even sub ppb level. Moreover, triple
quadrupole ICP-MS enables the use of other reactive gases like
ammonia for interference removal, allowing the elimination of
interferences affecting vanadium and chromium.
Greater robustness with the ceramic torch. While single
and triple quadrupole ICP-MS systems are improving petrochemical
analysis, there are also ways to boost the efficiency
and cost-effectiveness of these systems by making small adjustments
to their specifications. For example, implementing the
use of the latest ceramic torches can improve the functionality
of ICP-MS systems.
The torch is in direct contact with the plasma and sample
aerosol generated by the nebulizer, making it a vital component
for ensuring consistent and reliable ICP-MS operation. Conventional
torches are made of quartz and require routine maintenance
or frequent replacement-especially when performing
analysis with crude oil samples-and, therefore, are significant
contributors to running costs. However, ceramic torches have
been used frequently with ICP-OES and show an improved
product lifetime and reduced maintenance requirements, making
them more cost-effective in the long-term vs. quartz torches.
Moreover, ceramic torches can enhance the quality and
sensitivity of petrochemical analysis. While quartz torches
can contribute to background signals, particularly for silicon,
ceramic-based torches provide lower silicon background levels
and deliver improved detection limits for silicon and other elements,
such as cobalt and indium.
Takeaway. Regulatory requirements on monitoring increasingly
lower levels of impurities in petrochemical products
means that more advanced method platforms are required in
laboratories. Single and triple quadrupole ICP-MS systems
are boosting the capabilities of impurity monitoring in oil and
refinery product testing, allowing sensitive analysis and comprehensive
interference removal for all elements commonly
analyzed in the industry.
Triple quadrupole ICP-MS systems are increasing analysis
sensitivity levels by utilizing a variety of reactive gases-such
as oxygen and ammonia-to expand analytical capability. This
is especially true for elements, like sulfur, that are difficult to
measure at lower levels with single quadrupole ICP-MS. New
ceramic-based torches are further enhancing the quality of petrochemical
analysis by providing greater robustness of mass
spectrometry systems and improving detection limits of several
elements. Overall, these systems offer new options to overcome
challenges in petrochemical sample analysis and help to
improve workflow efficiencies.
LITERATURE CITED
Complete literature cited available online at www.HydrocarbonProcessing.com.
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Hydrocarbon Processing - December 2021

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