Sponsored Content by ESSLABReviewed by Olivia FrostAug 22 2025
By Michael Booth (Inorganic Ventures)
Laboratories face new challenges almost daily. Methods are demanding lower detection limits even as sample complexity rises. To meet these demands, instruments must operate at peak performance. However, we understand that instrument sensitivity naturally degrades with time.
Detection limits are rarely as low as on an instrument’s first day in service. Fortunately, there are techniques to achieve high-quality results as your system ages.
One key technique is to follow a rigid schedule of daily, weekly, monthly, and annual hardware and sample introduction system maintenance. Calibration and tuning are just as important, but often get overlooked.
ICP-OES wavelength calibration
ICP-OES equipment requires periodic wavelength calibration with standards containing elements with emission lines throughout the UV/VIS spectrum.
Accurate wavelength calibration ensures precise peak centering and improves sensitivity. It also improves the accuracy of the built-in spectral interference correction algorithms.
ICP-MS mass calibration and instrument tuning
ICP-MS systems require mass calibration, as well as routine lens and mass filter tuning. Calibration standards should include elements with a wide mass range, providing benefits similar to wavelength calibration in ICP-OES: increased sensitivity and better interference correction.
Tune solutions are tailored to specific methods, such as collision cell or non-collision cell operation. They aim to:
- Maximize signal sensitivity
- Minimize oxide production
- Reduce interference from doubly charged ions
Advanced users can create custom tuning solutions for specific mass ranges or analyte profiles.
Performance tracking and maintenance logs
Maintaining high performance requires more than tuning and calibration; thorough documentation is essential. Detailed maintenance and performance log:
- Identifies trends in sensitivity or RSDs
- Identifies recurring faults and faulty components
- Streamlines maintenance schedules
This data-driven strategy provides long-term dependability and high analytical performance.
The value of high-purity, certified solutions
To get the most out of any calibration, tuning, or performance check procedure, the quality of your reference materials is essential. Inorganic Ventures provides high-purity, NIST-traceable reference materials (CRMs) for:
- Accurate instrument calibration
- Reliable tuning
- Consistent performance checks
Low-purity or mislabeled solutions can lead to misdiagnosed instrument faults or inadequate tuning.
How ESSLAB supports your lab's success
This is where ESSLAB can help you achieve your laboratory's goals. ESSLAB provides a comprehensive choice of Inorganic Ventures CRMs through its online store, esslabshop.com.
- Calibration standards for ICP-OES and ICP-MS
- Customized solutions for different instrument configurations
- Performance checks to ensure system stability and correctness
Sourcing certified solutions from ESSLAB ensures the purity and precision needed to keep instruments performing reliably.
Shop certified reference materials at ESSLAB!
With regular maintenance, careful calibration, and high-purity solutions, ICP instruments can deliver reliable results for years after installation.
For a comprehensive variety of Inorganic Ventures reference materials, visit esslabshop.com or contact the ESSLAB team for advice on the correct solutions for your lab ([email protected]).
About ESSLAB
ESSLAB (Essex Scientific Laboratory Supplies Limited) is a leading global supplier of analytical consumables for chemical analysis. Founded in 1982, ESSLAB has built a strong reputation in the fields of chromatography, spectroscopy, and electrochemistry. Known for their expertise in precision liquid handling, ESSLAB offers a wide range of high-quality products that go beyond just laboratory instruments.
As a key distributor for some of the world’s top Reference Material producers, ESSLAB provides a full range of Certified Reference Materials (CRMs) — both organic and inorganic. These materials are essential for industries to ensure product quality, meet regulatory standards, and improve processes. ESSLAB’s commitment to quality has earned it a reputation as a "gold standard" supplier, trusted by customers worldwide.
The company is also known for its team of highly skilled specialists, who offer expert advice and customized solutions to help clients meet their specific needs. Whether it's navigating complex technical challenges or choosing the right products, ESSLAB’s team adds significant value to every customer interaction.
In addition to its high-quality products and expertise, ESSLAB provides exceptional logistics support. The company’s IATA-qualified team ensures safe and timely shipping of hazardous materials, following all relevant regulations. With a network of trusted carriers, ESSLAB can deliver products efficiently to customers in the UK, Europe, and the Middle East.
Why choose ESSLAB?
ESSLAB is the preferred choice for laboratories and scientific organizations for several reasons:
- IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations Authorized Shipper: ESSLAB ensures all shipments comply with strict safety standards.
- Flexible Shipping Options: The company partners with specialist freight handlers to provide tailored shipping solutions.
- International Trade Expertise: ESSLAB is accredited by the UK Department for International Trade and has over 20 years of experience in exporting.
- Responsive Customer Service: ESSLAB offers live chat, WhatsApp support, and priority response to inquiries.
- Accredited Quality Management: ESSLAB holds ISO 9001 (Quality Management) and ISO 14001 (Environmental Management) certifications.
- Large UK Stock Availability: ESSLAB maintains a large stock of chromatography consumables for quick and reliable delivery.
With its focus on customer satisfaction, high-quality products, and efficient service, ESSLAB is proud to be a trusted partner for laboratories, research institutions, and industries around the world. Whether you need reference materials, precision instruments, or expert logistics support, ESSLAB has the expertise and service to meet your needs.
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