The OptiMass 9600 is a mass spectrometer that utilizes Time-of-Flight (TOF) technology. Developed by GV Instruments, it is designed for high-precision and high-sensitivity mass measurement of particles and molecules. Thanks to TOF technology, the system delivers rapid mass data acquisition and is capable of detecting a wide range of elements and chemical compounds.
Key Differences Between OptiMass 9600 and OptiMass 9500
The OptiMass 9600 builds upon the OptiMass 9500 platform, with notable improvements in performance, technology, and software features. Below are some key distinctions:
Enhanced Technology
The OptiMass 9600 includes an improved Octopole Collision Cell (OCC) system, which significantly enhances interference management and supports superior multi-element analysis. This upgrade increases accuracy and analytical power in applications such as forensics and environmental sciences.Higher Speed and Accuracy
Compared to the 9500 model, the OptiMass 9600 offers faster data acquisition speeds, extracting over 30,000 complete spectra per second. This enables faster and more accurate analysis, especially valuable for small-volume or time-sensitive samples.Advanced Software Features
The system includes features like Retrospective SemiQuantitative (RSQ) Analysis, which allows users to reanalyze collected data for elements that were not originally calibrated. It also features a new Fingerprinting module, tailored for comparative analysis in forensic and investigative applications.Automated Optimization
The OptiMass 9600 includes an automatic optimization capability that allows the software to self-adjust instrument parameters to maximize sensitivity.Improved Performance on Small Samples
TOF technology and true simultaneous multi-element analysis ensure precise data collection even from small-volume samples, which are common in forensic or specialty applications.
Core Features of OptiMass 9600
Fast and Accurate Analysis: TOF technology enables rapid, high-precision measurements.
Compatibility with Various Samples: Capable of analyzing both solid and liquid samples, ideal for isotope analysis and mineralogical studies.
Broad Application: Due to its high speed and sensitivity, it is used in life sciences, geology, chemistry, and industrial chemical analysis.
ICP-TOFMS Technology and System Improvements
The OptiMass 9600 is a third-generation benchtop ICP-TOFMS instrument, building on the success of its predecessor and integrating advanced Octopole Collision Cell (OCC) technology for superior interference management.
This generation addresses the limitations typically seen in quadrupole ICP-MS systems. Detection limits achievable with quadrupole systems can now be attained for mass ranges from 1 to 260 amu in just a few seconds. This high-speed capability allows for a higher throughput of samples, even with standard sample introduction systems.
From a hardware perspective, enhancements result in reduced maintenance needs, more stable plasma performance, improved sample introduction, and better sequencing of operations. On the software side, new features include automatic tuning, allowing the system to automatically adjust to optimal parameters for maximum sensitivity.
Advanced SemiQuantitative and Fingerprinting Capabilities
The software supports a powerful semiquantitative mode using factory-defined Relative Sensitivity Factors (RSFs), enabling the determination of unknown analyte concentrations. Thanks to the system’s inherent simultaneous acquisition capabilities, both real-time and retrospective semi-quantitative analysis are possible.
In comparative studies like forensics, the new Fingerprinting software is especially beneficial. It uses statistical comparisons of experimental spectra with known reference spectra. Comparisons can be made between a Standard Reference Material (SRM) and an unknown sample, or between crime scene evidence and materials collected from a suspect’s residence, vehicle, or personal belongings. Proper sampling protocols must be established prior to such analyses.
High-Speed Data Collection and Versatile Applications
The OptiMass 9600 delivers rapid multi-element analysis by collecting full spectral data. Combined with the powerful statistical Fingerprinting software, it provides a comprehensive solution for comparative elemental analysis. The true simultaneous nature of TOF technology ensures that no data is lost, even from extremely small samples such as those collected at crime scenes.
With a data acquisition rate of 30,000 spectra per second, the system is ideal for capturing transient signals produced by methods like single-shot laser ablation, electrothermal vaporization, or flow injection. It displays 50 fully integrated mass spectra per second, enabling applications that were previously unattainable due to the sequential nature of quadrupole or magnetic sector mass spectrometers.
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| RF Generator | Solid-state generator with 27.12 MHz frequency Computer-controlled from 500 W to 1500 W with automatic tuning Auto-start via software |
| Torch | One-piece quartz torch designed for low flow and low power consumption |
| Sample Introduction | Nebulizer and spray chamber Concentric glass nebulizer with glass spray chamber featuring thermostatic coating |
| Argon Flows | Independent gas flows controlled by computer Mass flow regulation for all gas lines Total argon flow typically less than 12 L/min |
| Peristaltic Pump | Four-channel, 12-roller pump controlled by computer Speed range: 0–60 rpm Automatic high-speed rinse function |
| Mass Analyzer & Detector | Orthogonal Acceleration Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometer (oa-TOFMS) Mass range: 1 to 260 amu Ion extraction rate: over 30,000 full spectra per second Detection limit in parts-per-trillion (ppt) range OptiMass resolution typically ≥1200 for 238U or 0.4 amu |
Low Operating Costs :
Designed for efficient performance with minimal maintenance requirements and reduced resource consumption.
Low Argon Consumption :
Optimized gas flow system significantly reduces argon usage, lowering operational expenses.
Unique Retrospective Semi-Quantitative (RSQ) Analysis :
Each analysis collects data for the entire mass range (1 to 260 amu). With the RSQ feature, data remains available for future quantification of elements that were not originally calibrated.
Multi-Element Spectral Fingerprinting Capability :
Ideal for forensic science applications, enabling detailed comparative analysis of complex samples.
True Simultaneous Multi-Element Capability :
The TOF technology used in OptiMass ensures comprehensive data acquisition even from small sample volumes, such as those commonly found at crime scenes.
Laser Ablation-ICP-MS System :
A flexible and user-friendly solution for fast multi-element analysis of solid samples.
Advanced Octopole Collision Cell (OCC) Technology :
Provides superior interference management for more accurate and reliable results.
