The Interdepartmental Equipment Facility
The ICP Laboratory
ICP Spectrometers are used for multi-element analysis in solution. Most samples have to be prepared for analysis: they are solubilized, hydrolyzed and mineralized, so as to produce clear solutions of inorganic minerals, devoid of organic matter. This is frequently achieved by digesting a sample in a mixture of strong mineral acids using a Microwave Digestion System at high temperature and pressure.
Both of our ICP-AES Spectrometers are used for simultaneous detection of major and trace elements. One instrument is equipped with a 'radial' or vertical plasma torch, while the other has an 'axial' or horizontal torch. The vertical plasma is more robust - it can tolerate higher salt and acid concentrations. The 'axial' ICP, on the other hand, is more sensitive - exhibiting sub-ppb limits of detection for many of the metals.
The following equipment is currently available for use
in the ICP-Laboratory:
| Instrument | Make & Model |
| ICP-AES (axial) | Spectro ARCOS-EOP |
| ICP-AES (radial) | Spectro ARCOS-SOP |
| Microwave Digestion System | Milestone Ethos-1 |
| Muffle Furnace | Carbolite ELF 11/14B |
An Atomic Absorption Spectrometer and a Flame Photometer are soon to be installed. Additional equipment for sample preparation includes, among else, a table-top centrifuge, balances, hot plates, heating mantles, a drying oven and temperature-controlled baths.
The ICP Laboratory is located in the new eastern wing of the Volcani Building ("New Tzabam"). The Lab Manager is Vasiliy Rosen. You can call him at: 08-9489975 or at: 054-8820558, or send an email to: icpaes@gmail.com
Additional information
- Information for ICP Users
- Submitting samples for analysis by ICP
- ICP-AES Limits of Detection
- Frequently Asked Questions