Guardian™ autosampler probe

Sampler probes play a critical role in maintaining stable and reproducible sample introduction in ICP-MS and ICP-OES workflows. Variations in wetting behavior, dripping, or particulate uptake can lead to carryover, contamination, signal instability, and unplanned instrument downtime. These effects are especially pronounced in high-throughput laboratories or when working with organic matrices, viscous samples, or solutions containing particulates.

The Guardian autosampler probe is designed to address these practical challenges encountered during routine and demanding ICP analysis. The probe incorporates a cone-shaped ceramic tip with an integrated particle filtration function that helps prevent particulates from entering downstream sample introduction components. By reducing the transfer of particles into capillary tubing, nebulizers, and switching valves, the probe supports more stable operation and reduces the frequency of maintenance and reanalysis.

A controlled surface finish on the probe tip improves wetting behaviour for solutions, reducing droplet formation and minimizing dripping between samples. This contributes to lower carryover and improved consistency when sampling a wide range of matrices. The design is particularly suitable for organic samples such as oils, where uncontrolled dripping can lead to contamination of rinse stations and sample racks.

The probe is manufactured from chemically inert materials ceramic, PEEK, and PTFE, providing resistance to strong acids and organic solvents commonly used in elemental analysis. This construction supports long service life under routine laboratory conditions and compatibility with a broad range of sample types.

Sample matrices vary in viscosity, solids content, and concentration. Smaller internal diameters (e.g., 0.3 mm) are ideal for precise uptake of low-volume, low-viscosity samples, while larger diameters (e.g., 1.0 mm) are needed for high-flow, particulate-containing, or viscous samples. The Guardian Probe supports interchangeable capillaries (0.3, 0.5, 0.75, 1.0 mm) so that laboratories can adjust sample uptake to optimize precision, prevent blockages, and maintain consistent analytical performance across diverse applications.

By focusing on controlled sample uptake, reduced contamination risk, and protection of downstream components, the Guardian autosampler probe supports reliable data generation and consistent performance in routine and high-throughput ICP laboratories.