Picarro - A0213 IM-CRDS Datasheet - 130917

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PICARRO A0213

IM-CRDS Analyzer
Quick and Easy Analysis of Water Isotopes from
Solid Samples

• Prepare and analyze water extracted from solid samples and liquids with
high total dissolved solids in as little as 5 minutes
• Fully integrated with Picarro L2120-i & L2130-i analyzers
• Capable of in situ analysis in remote locations

Advantage Note: Picarro’s Induction Module – Cavity Ring-Down


Spectroscopy (IM-CRDS) system is a breakthrough technology that allows
scientists to perform high-precision isotope analysis of matrix-bound water extracted from solid materials and
liquids with high total dissolved solids, such as plant leaves and stems, juices and tissues, in as little as five
minutes. The IM-CRDS merges the sample extraction and analysis steps and requires only 30 seconds of
sample preparation. Due to it’s portability, quick set-up and low power consumption, the IM-CRDS can function
virtually anywhere.

Picarro’s patent-pending Induction Module (IM), coupled with Picarro’s L2120-i & L2130-i isotopic analyzers, can
replace the traditional combination of cryogenic distillation systems and Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry
(IRMS). The traditional combination requires an entire room, a highly-skilled dedicated operator, and over 90
minutes to process the samples. The additional time, expense and complexity of cryogenic distillation systems
limits research in this area. Picarro’s unique IM-CRDS opens new application horizons to researchers in diverse
disciplines including ecohydrology, ecophysiology, entomology, life science, soil science, and crop studies,
among others.

A sample is placed in the metal sample holder, which is then sealed in a purged glass vial. The vial is loaded into the
IM-CRDS and pierced by a septa. The IM-CRDS software then activates an induction coil to precisely and controllably
heat the metal sample holder in the vial. The heated sample quantitatively releases matrix-bound water as water
vapor. This water vapor is fed directly into the CRDS for oxygen and hydrogen isotope analysis (δ18O and δD).
Picarro’s onboard software integrates the resulting vapor pulse, and determines the integrated isotopic composition of
water extracted from the sample. The dried out sample can then be further analyzed for carbon isotopes using
Picarro’s Combustion Module – CRDS system.

This new technology is exclusively available to interface with the Picarro L2120-i & L2130-i. To optimize system
performance, several sample holders and associated methods are available for common sample types. Leaves can
be sampled with a simple hole-punch. The resulting punched disk is then crimped inside a folded metal foil. Stems
can be sampled by slicing thin cross-sectional pieces and loading them into the folded metal foil. Liquid samples
(such as water standards and juices) can also be analyzed using the IM-CRDS system by dispensing approximately
3µL of liquid onto glass filter paper. This filter paper can then be processed in the same fashion as leaf samples.
Researchers can develop methods for different types of samples and levels of moisture content by controlling the
level of heating and dry gas flow. Given the appropriate methods development, the IM-CRDS can accommodate many
types of samples such as small organisms, minerals, and soils.

The IM-CRDS employs Picarro’s Micro-Combustion Module™ technology, a proprietary cartridge that eliminates
organic interferences through an oxidation process. It has optimal efficacy for samples containing total organics in

© 2013 PICARRO, INC. · 3105 Patrick Henry Drive Santa Clara, CA 95054 · 408.962.3900 · [email protected] · www.picarro.com
concentrations typical for plant extracts (< 0.5%). Higher concentrations of
alcohols, such as those found in certain beverages, will not be completely broken
down. However, the process is highly reproducible and can create high-precision
fingerprint data.

Picarro’s Patented CRDS Technology: The heart of the Picarro analyzer is a


sophisticated time-based measurement that uses a laser to quantify spectral features of gas phase molecules in
an optical cavity. Picarro’s patented CRDS technology enables an effective measurement path length of up to 20
kilometers in a compact cavity, which results in exceptional precision and sensitivity with a small footprint.
Because lasers drift in all instruments, Picarro uses a patented, high precision wavelength monitor to maintain
absolute spectral position and the most accurate peak quantification of any instrument. In addition, CRDS
measurements are made with the laser off, thus minimizing spurious noise.

Target System Performance

Parameter Precision Between Identical Water Samples Instrument Drift (peak to peak, 24
hours, defined by liquids analysis)

δ18O < 0.35 ‰ < 0.6 ‰ / < 0.2 ‰ for L2120-i and L2130-i

δD < 1.5 ‰ < 1.8 ‰ / < 0.8 ‰ for L2120-i and L2130-i

Sample Range

Parameter Standard Method(s) Accessible Range

Sample Size 6 mm OD punch (leaves and stems) Combined sample + sample holder
~ 3 µL of liquid (water and juices) Min. dimension < 7.5 mm
Max. dimension < 25 mm

Moisture Content 60 to 90 % > 2 µL water

Sample Preparation and ca. 5 minutes 3 to 20 minutes


Analysis Time Combined

System Requirements

Parameter Notes Quantity

Standard 1.5 psi


Operations Gas Pressure Stable 2 stage regulator required
Accessible 0.5 to 5 psi

Operational Gas Flow (use of a gas flow meter is Standard 150 sccm
Air (< 500 ppm moisture)
recommended for optimization of IM methodology) Accessible 50-400 sccm

Maximum Power Draw 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz 75 Watts

Operations Power Draw 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz < 25 Watts

Dimensions Fits above analyzer 5.0 x 4.5 x 10.5” (13 x 12 x 27 cm)

Weight Sits atop analyzer 1.4 kg

© 2013 PICARRO, INC. · 3105 Patrick Henry Drive Santa Clara, CA 95054 · 408.962.3900 · [email protected] · www.picarro.com

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