The W.M. Keck Collaboratory for Plasma Spectrometry operates two  four inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometers and an optical emission spectrometer. Colllectively these instruments cover a large range of  for analysis of a range: NuPlasma multi-collector ICP-MS, Nu Plasma 3D multi-collector ICP-MS, Two Thermo Scientific X-series 2 quadrupole ICP-MS (one dedicated to Laser ablation applications), and Spectros Arcos ICP-OES.

Sampling devices include an excimer laser (Photon Machines Analyte G2), ion chromatograph, custom-built shell-cleaning apparatus, and autosamplers.

Nu Plasma 3D MC-ICP-MS

The NuPlasma3D multicollector ICP-MS instrument has an array of 16 Faraday Cups, together with four Daly detectors and two electron multipliers. One Daly detector also has retardation filter for high abundance sensivity. This instrument is also equipped with a plasma shield to promote high sensitivity. The instrument is optimized for measurement of isotope ratios where we expect lower intensity ion beams, and is used for measurement of Pb isotope, U-Pb, and U-series isotope compositions via solution and laser ablation.

NuPlasma3 MC-ICP-MS

The NuPlasma3 multicollector ICP-MS instrument has an array of 16 Faraday Cups, and single electron multiplier, together with a high sensitivity plasma shield. This instrument is used for measurements of Sr, Nd and other isotopes via solution and laser ablation.

Thermo Scientific iCAP Q Quadruple ICP-MS

We operate two Thermo Scientific iCAP Q quadruple ICP-MS instruments, both are equipped with collision cells for operation in kinetic energy discrimination mode. One is dedicated to solution work and the other to laser ablation (LA-ICP-MS). These instruments offer high sensitivity for measurement of elemental concentrations in a wide range of natural and other materials.

The solution instrument is used for analyses across many disciplines ranging from natural waters to sediments, soils and biological material.  Samples can be introduced into the instrument using a variety of auto samplers and automated inline sequential dissolution devices including a seaFAST autodilution system,.  Analyses can be performed in standard mode or configured to run utilizing collision cell capability.

The laser ablation instrument is used for a diverse range of analyses including trace element studies of rocks, mineral and glasses for studies in volcanology and igneous petrology; U-Pb dating and zircons for geochronology; analysis of otoliths for fisheries applications; analysis of biomaterials for toxicology and many other uses.

Applied Spectra RESOlution Excimer Laser Ablation System.

This instrument is designed for laser ablation ICP-MS analyses of a range of solid materials. Based on an ATLEX fast excimer laser system, the unit also has a two volume cell for high sensitivity and rapid response times. Laser spot sizes vary between ~5-250 µm and include circular, square and slit-shaped spots. We also have an adjustable aperture that allows for customizable slit and square-shaped spots.

The RESOlution is coupled with either the iCAP Q Quadrupole for trace element analyses and U-Pb dating of zircon, or with one of our NuPlasma MC-ICP-MS instruments for in-situ analysis of Pb or Sr isotopes, and U-Pb zircon dating.

Spectros Arcos ICP-OES

The Spectro Arcos ICP-OES is a workhorse instrument utilized for analysis of elemental concentrations in a wide range of materials, including natural and process waters, leached samples and a range of other materials. . The Arcos allows for simultaneous gathering of wavelength data in either axial or radial view with optical sensitivity extending from the VUV through the Visual portion of the light spectrum extending both dynamic range while also enabling the analysis of frequently inaccessible elements like those belonging to the halogen group.

Class 10-100 Clean Room Space

Our 500 square foot dedicated class-100 clean laboratory is utilized for final sample dissolution, element purification and sample preparation for analysis by MC-ICP-MS and ICP-MS including class 10 spaces in HEPA and ULPA filtered fume hoods and laminar flow benches. We also operate automated ultra-pure acid distillation and acid cleaning systems.