AnalytiChem adds trace metal certification to its DigiTUBE digestion tubes, raising the bar for ICP sample preparation
AnalytiChem, the specialist laboratory consumables manufacturer, has launched a Trace Metal Certification for its polypropylene DigiTUBE™ disposable digestion tubes – adding to an existing Volume Certification and making DigiTUBEs one of the most comprehensively certified disposable digestion vessels currently on the market.
The new certificate, produced in an ISO 17025-accredited laboratory, provides verified reference values for more than 65 elements, confirming ultra-low background contamination in the polypropylene material used to manufacture the tubes. The data are intended to support method validation, blank evaluation and audit documentation – all of which are essential when quantifying trace elements at ppb or ppt concentrations by ICP-OES or ICP-MS.
Addressing the contamination control challenge
Contamination control in trace metal analysis begins long before a sample reaches the instrument. The polypropylene matrix of a digestion tube can itself contribute measurable background signals at the ultra-trace level, and without certified reference data for the vessel, laboratories must either characterise tubes themselves or accept the associated uncertainty. The DigiTUBE Trace Metals Certificate removes that burden by providing transparent, method-based reference values for inherent elemental background directly from the manufacturer.
The tubes are manufactured from ICP-MS Grade Polypropylene and feature flat bottoms to accelerate heat transfer during graphite digestion block procedures – a geometry suited to environmental and industrial sample matrices where acid digestion is standard practice.
Volumetric accuracy alongside contamination data
Each production lot of DigiTUBEs also receives a Certificate of Volume, confirming compliance with Class A Specification under ASTM E288-10 and ISO 384, verified through AnalytiChem’s ISO 17025-accredited procedure. The tubes are available in 15, 50 and 100 mL formats with leak-free colour-coded screw caps and calibrated volume graduations to facilitate accurate in-tube dilution.
By consolidating digestion, dilution, transfer and storage into a single disposable vessel, DigiTUBEs are designed to replace up to five separate laboratory vessels, thereby reducing handling steps and the associated contamination risk. An optional RackLock feature supports one-handed cap closure for improved ergonomics during high-throughput workflows.
Industry confidence through formalised quality
Lurdes Teixeira, VP Services & Segment Leader Environmental at AnalytiChem, commented: “Robustly formalising the quality of our products gives laboratories greater confidence in contamination control, volumetric accuracy and improves workflow efficiency in sensitive trace metal analysis applications.” She added: “At AnalytiChem, we remain committed to continuously improving our products to ensure they are fit for purpose and suitable for even the most demanding applications.”
A broader ecosystem for trace metal workflows
DigiTUBEs are positioned as part of a wider sample preparation offering from AnalytiChem. Compatible products include the DigiFILTER for low-contamination filtration, Watch Glasses with an integrated handle for safe handling and cross-contamination prevention, and Autosampler Tubes manufactured from virgin polypropylene with ultra-low metal content. The company also supplies high-purity ICP Standards for calibration in ICP-OES and ICP-MS workflows.
For more information, visit: https://www.analytichem.com
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