Why Choose DC Arc for Elemental Analysis?
Eliminates Sample Digestions
While techniques such as AA or ICP work well for liquid samples, some matrices can be nearly impossible to get into solution. This is the case for certain ceramics as well as for materials like graphite. For other samples, such as high purity copper and certain precious metals, the digestion needed to get the solid into solution, can dilute the sample beyond the detection limits obtainable with these techniques. Digestion steps also carry with them the possibility of contamination of the acids and vessels used for the digestion process.
The Prodigy DC Arc can analyze directly, powders, wires and chips in their native form without the need to digest or dilute the sample.
Provides Low Limits of Detection
Because the Prodigy DC Arc does not require digestion or dilution of the sample, detection limits are very low for most analytes in most sample matrices. Typical detection limits are less than 1 ppm in the solid.
Provides Fast Qualitative and Semi-Quantitative Analysis
Prodigy DC Arc is an excellent choice for sample screening because of its fast analysis time (under 1 minute per sample) and minimal sample preparation. Prodigy's advanced Full Spectrum Acquisition mode of data acquisition, allows the user to capture a permanent record of the full DC Arc spectrum for future reference.
Capture Full Spectrum, Perform Elemental Fingerprinting
Prodigy's advanced Full Spectrum Acquisition mode of data acquisition, allows the user to capture a permanent record of the full DC Arc spectrum for future reference. It also allows the user the ability to subtract spectra from one another - an extremely powerful qualitative analysis tool. Imagine being able to subtract a standard reference spectrum of the product that you are trying to QC from every new lot produced and seeing any new contaminates jump right off the screen for you to view.

It is Inexpensive to Operate
Unlike many of today's analytical techniques, the Prodigy DC Arc is exceptionally inexpensive to operate. There are no special lamps, no chemicals, glassware or sample cones to replace. There are no expensive vacuum components to fail or maintain and you don't need Ph.D. scientist to run it. Apart from your sample, some graphite electrodes, small quantities of argon or oxygen gas, there are few consumables associated with the Prodigy DC Arc. This means the overall cost of ownership will be very low when compared to other techniques.