Nu Instruments | Highly Precise Vanadium Isotope Determination for Small Samples 

Vanadium isotopes are powerful tools for investigating redox processes in geological systems. This application note shows how the Sapphire MC-ICP-MS enables precise vanadium isotope measurements from small sample quantities by removing problematic interferences in a collision cell.

Vanadium peaks 50V, 51V in coincidence in the low resolution mode using the Sapphire collision cell.

Vanadium isotope compositions are widely used to study variations in oxidation conditions during geological processes. Traditional methods often require high-resolution analysis and larger sample sizes to overcome interferences.


The Sapphire Dual-Path MC-ICP-MS removes argon-based polyatomic interferences using hydrogen within the collision cell. This allows measurements to be performed in low-resolution mode while maintaining excellent analytical performance.


Results obtained from vanadium standards demonstrate superior reproducibility while consuming less material than many published methods. The approach improves efficiency and expands opportunities for analysing limited or valuable samples.

Sapphire MC-ICP-MS Instrument

Key Takeaways:

  • Accurate vanadium isotope analysis can be performed using small sample amounts.
  • Collision cell technology enables low-resolution measurements with reduced interference.
  • Improved reproducibility is achieved while lowering sample consumption.
Man adjusts part of mass spec instrument

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