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ICP-MS Integration for Radioactive Samples Analysis
Inert has developed a specialized glove box designed for the integration of an ICP-MS mass spectrometer. ICP-MS is analytical equipment used to study the atomic composition of samples for quality control and fundamental research. In this specific case, the ICP-MS is integrated into a glove box to provide operator protection for Actinium-225 radioisotope samples.
ICP-MS Integration in Inert SafeLab
The integration of this equipment requires thorough planning by Inert engineers to accommodate all crosspieces, connections, and mechanical supports. Maintenance aspects are also considered to ensure the equipment can be easily serviced throughout its lifecycle. Installed in a restricted area that monitors all alpha and beta particles, the maintenance aspects of our SafeLab is specifically designed for nuclear and isotope applications.
To enable the atomization of samples using ICP-MS plasma, controlling air flow, temperature, and vibrations is critical to maintaining the quality of measurements. A dedicated air conditioning system maintains a stable temperature despite the heat generated by the plasma during atomization. This temperature is adjusted via a touchscreen, and the glove box regulates it automatically.
The ICP-MS also operates with an Auto Sampler, facilitating the transfer of samples from vials to the ICP-MS. To protect against the risk of HCl and NH3 vapors, an absorption plate is placed on the glove box floor to prevent splashing. Large-capacity HEPA H14 filtration (300 m³/h) ensures significant air renewal, limiting the risk of acid vapor damage to the glove box walls.
In this specific setup, our SafeLab is equipped with a vertical opening panel with an inflatable seal. This feature guarantees a high level of sealing when the panel is closed and provides easy access for maintenance. Additionally, precautions against device failure include an empty box valve to protect the box from the ICP-MS’s turbo pump failures.
A ventilated antechamber enable to bring parts in and out of the glovebox. The antechamber is equipped with HEPA filters and a BiBo filter case. A RTP (Rapid Transfer Port) has been included as well to connect sealed drums to the glovebox.
Glove Box for Radioisotopes and Precautions
The glove box is built for analyzing Actinium-225 radioisotope samples, adhering to nuclear field precautions.
Round Corner Manufacturing
Constructed with 1” rounded corners, the round corners prevent contamination of retention areas. Made from 3mm thick 304L stainless steel, this glove box withstands seismic shocks due to its reinforced frame and ground-anchored design.
Filtration
The glove box features high-flow HEPA filters for both gas inlet and outlet, as well as for filtering air exiting the ICP-MS. Filter redundancy includes “Bag In, Bag Out” filters for safe technician filter exchanges. Analyzers and connectors for monitoring filters and conducting HEPA filter integrity testing have been added. Other filter could have been considered if required, such as Push-Through filters.
Fire Protection and Auto Insulation valves
The box is equipped with a fire detection system. A dedicated wire detects heat increases and informs the customer of any fire outbreaks, connecting to the customer’s monitoring center. Additionally, a containment rupture detection system isolates the box if negative pressure is lost, preventing the release of radon or other gases.
Shielding
This glovebox had no shielding requirements due to the low radioactivity of the samples. This specification was defined by the customer. A specific lead shield could have been included as well as lead safety glass windows if requested.
Safety flow
This glovebox is equipped with our VMR63, our regulation valve and our VMS63, safety valve which regulates the negative pressure inside the enclosure. The HEPA air filtered air running through the glovebox allows a constant air/change rate of the enclosure but also guarantees a safety flow in case of containment breach.
Our glovebox follows the guidelines of the American Glovebox Society, offering a face velocity of 125+25 ft/min air flow in case of glove breach, protecting therefore the operator from any risk.
Global Customers
Global Customers
