This document is an application note on the analysis of flue gas desulfurization wastewaters using Agilent 7700x ICP-MS. It discusses the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (USEPA) revision of effluent guidelines for the steam electric power generating industry, specifically addressing the increased wastewater discharges from Phase 2 of the Clean Air Act amendments. The application note highlights the measurement challenges of toxic metals in FGD wastewater and introduces the application of Agilent 7700x ICP-MS.
The document describes a method developed to analyze regulated metals in high-matrix flue gas desulfurization (FGD) wastewaters. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) requires these measurements due to revised effluent guidelines for steam electric power plants. FGD wastewater presents challenges due to high dissolved solids and potential matrix-based polyatomic ion interferences.
The Agilent 7700x ICP-MS system, equipped with the High Matrix Introduction (HMI) system, Octopole Reaction System (ORS), and optional ISIS-DS discrete sampling system, was used to develop a robust analytical method. The method includes specific sample preparation protocols, instrument parameters, and quality control procedures to ensure accurate detection of toxic metals in this challenging matrix.
| Forward RF power | 1550 W |
|---|---|
| Carrier gas flow | 0.56 L/min |
| Dilution gas flow | 0.33 L/min |
| Sample loop volume | 600 uL |
| Online dilution factor | 1:2 |
The method uses an Agilent 7700x ICP-MS equipped with an Agilent ISIS-DS discrete sampling system.
The High Matrix Introduction (HMI) system enables controlled, reproducible aerosol dilution, which increases plasma robustness and reduces exposure to the sample matrix.
The Octopole Reaction System (ORS) operating in helium collision mode eliminates matrix-based polyatomic interferences regardless of sample composition.