Automated Trace Metals Analyzer

Metal contamination arises from many sources and does not biodegrade in the environment. Prevention of soil and sediment contamination can only be accomplished by effective real or near-real-time monitoring of effluents, process streams, and runoff. Field measurement of metals is difficult due to the size and complexity of the standard analytical instrumentation. Current laboratory methods employ either atomic absorption spectroscopy or inductively coupled plasma spectroscopy . Although these instruments are capable of low parts per billion measurements, they are expensive, sensitive to matrix affects, and require experienced operators as well as significant infrastructure support for field use. These systems are also not well suited for continuous automated monitoring of effluent and process streams. A prototype automated trace metals analyzer has been developed based on the electrochemical technique of potentiometric stripping analysis. This technique was pioneered by D. Jagner in the early 70's. Recent advances in electronics now enable this technique to perform a completely automated metal analyses to less than one part per billion in about three minutes. The instrument, weighing less that 10 kg, provides a capability to perform on-site, discrete analyses, or continuous, automatic monitoring at programmed intervals over extended periods. The analyzer can be packaged in many configurations to suit specific requirements. These include minimum size for maximum portability, NEMA enclosures for industrial locations, or bench top systems for laboratory settings. Presented at Workshop on Tri-Service Environmental Technology held in Hershey, PA on 20-22 May 1996. Pub. in Proceedings of the Tri-Service Environmental Technology Workshop, p159-162, May 1996. This article is from ADA429790 Proceedings of the Tri-Service Environmental Technology Workshop, Enhancing Readiness Through Environmental Quality Technology Held in Hershey, PA on 20-22 May 1996