PerkinElmer ELAN DRC-e Dynamic Reaction Cell Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer (Used, Refurbished)

Overview

The PerkinElmer ELAN DRC-e is a high-performance, quadrupole-based inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer engineered for ultra-trace elemental analysis at sub-femtogram-per-gram detection levels. It employs a patented Dynamic Reaction Cell (DRC) technology — a pressurized, multipole reaction chamber positioned between the ion optics and mass analyzer — to selectively remove polyatomic interferences via controlled gas-phase reactions (e.g., using NH₃, O₂, or CH₃F). Unlike static collision cells, the DRC enables real-time, ion-specific reaction tuning by dynamically adjusting RF voltage, reaction gas flow, and kinetic energy discrimination. This architecture delivers interference removal performance comparable to magnetic sector instruments for key isotopes including ⁵⁶Fe, ⁴⁰Ca, ³⁹K, ⁷⁵As, and ⁸⁰Se — without sacrificing sensitivity or requiring high-resolution scanning. The system operates at standard plasma conditions (1.5 kW RF power, 1.0 L/min nebulizer gas), integrates seamlessly with conventional concentric glass or PFA nebulizers, and maintains robust signal stability over extended acquisition periods (>8 hours).

Key Features

• Dynamic Reaction Cell (DRC) with dual-gas capability (NH₃ and O₂ pre-installed; CH₃F compatible)
• Real-time, method-driven resolution adjustment (0.3–3 amu) without hardware reconfiguration
• 9-decade linear dynamic range enabling simultaneous quantification of major and trace elements in single runs
• Dual-stage vacuum system with turbomolecular pumps (≥300 L/s total pumping speed) and cryo-trapped interface
• High-transmission ion optics with off-axis electron multiplier detector (EM) and analog mode for high-count-rate applications
• Integrated internal standardization support (e.g., ¹¹⁵In, ²⁰³Tl, ¹⁸⁷Re) for drift correction and matrix normalization
• Refurbished unit includes full replacement of critical consumables: sampler/skimmer cones, torch, injector, and pump oils

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ELAN DRC-e accepts liquid samples introduced via pneumatic nebulization (standard) or laser ablation (with optional LA-ICP-MS interface). It accommodates aqueous standards, acid-digested environmental matrices (EPA Method 6020B), semiconductor rinse waters (ASTM F2323), biological digests (USP /), and high-salinity brines (with desolvation or cool plasma operation). All refurbished units undergo comprehensive performance verification per PerkinElmer’s Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) protocol, including oxide (¹⁶⁰Gd¹⁶O⁺/¹⁶⁰Gd⁺), doubly charged (¹³⁸Ba²⁺/¹³⁸Ba⁺), and background equivalent concentration (BEC) checks. Data output complies with ASTM D5673-22 and ISO/IEC 17025:2017 documentation requirements. When operated with PerkinElmer’s Syngistix™ software (v3.5+), audit trails, electronic signatures, and user access controls align with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 readiness.

Software & Data Management

The instrument ships with PerkinElmer Syngistix for ICP-MS v3.5 or later — a validated, Windows-based platform supporting method development, real-time DRC parameter optimization, isotope ratio calculations, and automated calibration curve generation. Raw data files (.raw) are stored in vendor-neutral format with embedded metadata (instrument parameters, timestamps, operator ID). Export options include CSV, Excel, and XML for LIMS integration. Refurbished systems include full software licensing (perpetual, non-transferable), installation support, and remote configuration assistance. Data archiving follows NIST SP 800-53 Rev. 5 guidelines for retention integrity, with optional encrypted backup configuration available upon request.

Applications

The ELAN DRC-e is routinely deployed in accredited laboratories for regulatory compliance testing across multiple sectors: environmental monitoring (EPA 6020B, ISO 17294-2); geological geochemistry (REE profiling, U–Pb dating prep); semiconductor manufacturing (trace metal contamination in ultrapure water and photoresists); clinical toxicology (whole blood Pb, Cd, As speciation post-HPLC coupling); and nuclear safeguards (isotopic uranium/plutonium ratios). Its DRC-enabled interference suppression makes it especially suited for high-Ca/Fe matrices (e.g., bone ash, steel slag, seawater) where conventional quadrupole ICP-MS fails without mathematical correction or dilution.

FAQ

Is this unit fully refurbished and performance-verified?
Yes — each ELAN DRC-e undergoes complete disassembly, cleaning, cone replacement, vacuum system overhaul, and multi-point calibration against NIST SRM 3100 series standards prior to shipment.
Does the 6-month warranty cover the reaction cell electronics and detector?
Yes — the warranty includes all core components: DRC RF generator, ion optics assembly, quadrupole rods, EM detector, and vacuum pumps.
Can this system be upgraded to support HPLC-ICP-MS coupling?
Yes — the standard interface supports nanoflow and microflow LC connections; optional ESI source and delay cell kits are available for speciation workflows.
What documentation is provided with the instrument?
You receive a full FAT report, refurbishment log, electrical safety certification, CE/UL conformity statement, and Syngistix software license certificate.
Is remote technical support included during the warranty period?
Yes — priority email and screen-sharing support is provided Monday–Friday, 08:00–17:00 EST, with response time guaranteed within 4 business hours.