The 10.255 is an online analyser for hydride forming elements such as As, Se and Sb. Based on hydride generation atomic fluorscence spectrometry the systems offer part per trillion detection limits and linearity to ppm levels. The system is a single element analyser with high selectivity defined by the use of an element specific boosted discharge hollow cathode lamp.

All of the hydride forming elements are considered highly toxic, environmentally sensitive and they are difficult to remove from drinking water supplies and wastewater discharges.

High levels of Arsenic can be found in drinking water supplies in many countries causing major health effects such as cancer. The Arsenic is naturally occurring from the presence of Arsenic rich minerals in the aquifer layers. Arsenic may also be emitted from various industrial processes including mining activities, smelting of non-ferrous metals, oil and gas refining, waste incineration, coal burning, pesticide production and uses. Safe drinking water limites are less than 10ppb whereas wastewater discharges tend to be much higher and limits are set by regulatory agencies.

Most drinking water contains concentrations of selenium are lower than 10ppb except in certain seleniferous areas where ppm levels of Se have been reported. Selenium in drinking water supplies is not considered to be a major health concern and safe limit is considered to be less that 50ppb. Selenium is however released to the environment from various industrial processes such as mining, smelting, petrochemicals, waste incineration and coal burning.

Antimony levels in drinking water are generally quite low and not considered a major health concern. However it is used in various industrial processes and is discharged in wastewater. Antimony compounds are used as catalysts in the production of polyesters and flame retardants and these ultimately causes releases of antimony to the environment during production and disposal.

In June 2013, the EPA proposed a new rule "40 CFR Part 423" which relates to effluent limitation guidelines to limit the amount of toxic metals being discharged to surface waters. Arsenic, Selenium, Antimony and Mercury are the main elements of concern because of their high toxicity and potential impact to the environment and wildlife. The proposed effluent limitation guideline is based on the treatment technology utilized on site and is currently set to between 4 and 8 ppb for Arsenic, x and x ppb for Selenium and x to x ppb Antimony. The reliable determination of hydride forming elements below 10ppb in a FGD wastewater matrix is very difficult using ICP-MS because a relatively large dilution is required to lessen the total dissolved solid content of the sample. In addition to this there are isobaric interferences which have to be overcome.

There is an increasing need to remove and monitor As, Se and Sb from drinking water supplies and wastwater discharges. Abatement systems have to be monitored in real time using online measurements to ensure discharge limits are being achieved.

The 10.255 online analyser can be wall-mounted (recommended) or free standing and for convenience consists of the following three sections;

• Touch screen or keyboard user interface

• Chemistry section

• Electronic section

The main user interface is the PSA online process software. This is an easy to use yet fully flexible software package that controls the anaylser and reports the data in real time. The electronics section is sectioned off from the wet chemicals and also purged to prevent corrosion in harsh environments.

The system can be used with a wide range of chemistries depending upon the customer’s requirements. The system can also run in either continuous flow or discrete injection modes to add further flexibility.

Self cleaning speed loop filtration systems are available.

Chemistry Section

The PSA 10.255 is designed to be used for maximum flexibility, making it easily adaptable to a particular chemistry requirement. The chemistry section can be supplied with both a UV Cracker and a conventional heater. The standard instrument is supplied with UV only, as this is the most common format required, however a heater option and also a UV + heater option are available.

Hydride generation is oxidation state and compound dependent. Different chemistries are therefore used for each element and aplication. In general terms an oxidizing agent is added to aid the UV digestion of organometallic species and to breakdown organics in the sample. This conversion process is online and highly efficient. In the case of Arsenic and Antimony as oxidation process is typically used. This converts the analyte to the inorganic pentavalent state. For Selenium an online pre-reduction is used. This is mecessary becase Se (VI) does not form the hydride.

In all cases a sodium tetrahydroborate reagent us used to form the hydride species and reagent consumption is minimal.

Multi-stream Capability

The analyser system comes as standard with a 10 port stream selector allowing both standards (for calibration and checks) and samples to be automatically sequenced.

Connection to PLC/Control Room

The system is supplied with the PS Analytical C210S007 Online software package as standard. This gives the administrator the complete flexibility of control with full multi-tier multi user operation set up. The software gives full control and results with user determined alarms covering all possibilities.

Optional additional 4-20mA and contact closures can be easily added, as well as MODBUS RTU, RS 232, OPC Server and OPC Client.

Remote Access

The online system has been designed with remote access in mind. The software can be configured to routinely send data, alarms and reminders via email. The system also has the ability to be remotely controlled over Ethernet /Internet, enabling remote diagnostics to be carried out.

Flexibility

Utilising simple lamp change, the online arsenic analyser can be easily and quickly converted into an online selenium analyser or an online antimony analyser.

Please click here to go to our Online Liquid Accessories page.

To discuss any particular requirements and for more detailed information on the above product please complete the Information Request Form.

© Copyright 2022 P S Analytical

Head Office: +44 (0)1689 891211  |  US Office: +1 954 4291577  |  SEA Office: +61 (0) 428 226674