Reliable metal analysis for electroplating

Interview

How have your analytical capabilities changed with the contrAA 800?

For many years, we have been using traditional flame absorption spectrometry in electroplating analysis: on the one hand, for daily wastewater monitoring, but also to determine the presence of foreign metals in electroplating baths, which have a complex matrix composition.
Our initial experience involved using a traditional line emitter, the novAA 350, which impressed us with its robustness and stability.
By switching to the high-resolution contrAA 800 with an integrated short-arc xenon lamp, we were able to map the spectral environment of the measurement lines and thus expand our analytical portfolio. Additionally, this instrument technology enables rapid sequential analysis of our samples without changing the excitation source.

What advantages of the contrAA 800 are particularly evident in everyday laboratory work?

Sample preparation can be standardized and carried out quickly: The target elements can be quantified directly against aqueous calibrations in the samples.
For some applications, we use the standard addition method to improve the recovery rate.
This allows us to meet all our requirements using the high-resolution continuous-wave emitter.

What do you appreciate about working with Analytik Jena?

Our contrAA 800 is thoroughly inspected once a year by an AJ service technician. This, combined with the support we receive from the service hotline when developing methods, ensures we’re well taken care of throughout the year. During the annual on-site maintenance visit, the technician always takes the time to answer our questions.