PICARRO L2120-i δD/δ18O Isotopic Water Analyzer
Picarro’s L2120-i provides both δ18O and δD isotope ratios with high precision in a single measurement. Researchers can use the L2120-i for either vapor or liquid data sampling and can switch between the two modes in seconds without recalibrating the analyzer or making configuration changes. The L2120-i comes in a compact single-module system, ideal for deployment in the field or in the lab.
Leveraging Picarro’s unique Cavity Ring-Down Spectroscopy (CRDS), the L2120-i is a time-based measurement system that uses a laser to quantify spectral features of gas phase molecules (specifically absorption lines unique to H2 16O, H2 18O, and HD16O) in an optical cavity. CRDS offers significant performance, ease-of-use and cost of ownership benefits compared to absorption based technologies, including ICOS. An effective path length of up to 20 kilometers provides exceptional precision and sensitivity. A patented, high-precision wavelength monitor maintains absolute spectral position, thereby ensuring accurate peak quantification. In addition, this technology guarantees that only the spectral features of interest are being monitored, greatly reducing the analyzer’s sensitivity to interfering species.
Picarro system has similar accuracy and sensitivity to expensive isotope ratio mass spectrometers (IRMS). The device has autosampler and samples from vials are automatically injected into a vaporizing unit held at high temperature and the resulting vapor sent to the analyzer.
Picarro’s optical cavities incorporate precise temperature and pressure control systems, ensuring accurate measurements over long periods of time, even in the harshest environments. As a result, the analyzer maintains high linearity, precision, and accuracy with minimal calibration required. For researchers, the L2120-i delivers a best-inclass combination of flexibility, speed, high-precision, and ease-of-use that sets a new standard for water isotope analyzers.
- Sample volume: 2ml
- Measurement errors: δ18O: 0.1 ‰
- δD: 1 ‰
