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Without the scientist Robert Bunsen and the talented instrument designer Peter Desaga there would have been no “nearly invisible” flame device called the Bunsen Burner. The science of emission spectroscopy might have been delayed for years, or never discovered at all without that colourless flame. If that were so, then Bunsen and his partner Gustav Kirchhoff wouldn’t have discovered two new additions to the periodic table and the state of chemical science might still be years behind even now. Instead, since 1854, it has progressed steadily and the ~170-year-old invention is still found in nearly every chemical laboratory in the world. In a manner of speaking, flame photometry had its roots in some developments by Pierre Jules César Janssen, the first scientist to identify the element helium from his solar observations. He proposed a method to detect other elements, including sodium, which inspired Henri Pellet, Jean Charles Marie Grenier, and Paul Champion to build a crude but workable sodium detector in 1873. Their device relied on two flames, one with prepared water samples having known quantities of dissolved sodium and a sample prepared from plant material burned to ash, dissolved in water, filtered and then introduced into the second flame. It certainly couldn’t specify PPM (Parts Per Million) but there were detectable differences. It's impreciseness resulted from it relying entirely on watching the two flames with just eyes and looking for differences. It was a good starting point but it took an innovation by physicist Louis Georges Gouy to give the system basic accuracy. He created an air-powered system for introducing precise amounts into the flame of both samples at the same time using atomisers. It then took until the technology of 1946 caught up to the needs of science, when Barnes, Richardson, Berry, and Hood evolved a reasonably modern version of the flame photometer. Their design was capable of measuring both sodium and potassium with good reliability.  However, due to shortages at the close of WWII, sufficient materials were not available to build more than a few sample machines for testing. The device had the signature atomiser, the colourless flame, pressurised air, reference samples of test substances for calibration and filters to remove interfering light before reaching a plain photocell. Unlike modern versions, it utilised a galvanometer to report voltage that was a result of the altered amount of filtered light coming from the flame and reaching the photocell. This was surprisingly accurate for such a method. By 1950, J.W. Severinghaus and J.W. Ferrebee had determined the amounts of calcium in biological materials. These included urine, blood, serum, and other materials, correctly quantified through flame photometry. By 1953, we had reliably detected fairly precise amounts of barium with a flame photometer. By 1962 we had a good method for identifying strontium in quantities as low as 0.001 PPM. By 1963, a method had been developed to detect lithium. An amplification technique was also developed to enumerate concentrations of 10-3 (0.001) PPM. The Takeaway Nowadays we have incredibly sensitive devices, far removed from those early efforts. With modern photomultiplier tubes and photodiode arrays, we can capture the emitted light of very specific frequencies, quantify it to simultaneously determine how much of each substance is present, reporting them all at once, and thereby speed up the entire process.  And, of course, this produces a result that is respected industry-wide for its reliability and accuracy. It’s your reputation that is on the line. Don’t you think you should have equipment that will reinforce your reputation and make you a preferred supplier of this service to all your customers? Yes, it is definitely time for you to speak to one of our experts and allow them to assure you have premium tools to be the very best in your field. Call us—we’d love to hear from you, and make you the best at what you do!

While this article is not intended as a biology lesson, the use of flame photometers in the biological sciences is of paramount importance. Diagnostic medicine relies on fast determination of ionic metal ratios in bio-samples for life-saving treatment research. Those samples can be blood, saliva, urine, CSF (cerebrospinal fluid), gastric juices, or virtually any liquid the body can produce.  Indeed, methodologies have been developed to detect these important metals in biopsy samples or…um…solids produced by the body’s waste system. The presence of Sodium, Potassium, Lithium, Calcium, and Barium are all detectable by flame photometry.  Sodium, potassium, and calcium imbalances can result in death, of course, since these are the electrolytes of our bodies’ electrical architecture and the controllers of the on/off and intensity switches (channels) of functions like cardiac muscle contraction processes (heartbeat).  They are what allow our nerves to send all the vital signals that let us function. Barium and lithium have no known natural biological role, but lithium in a specific molecular form (lithium carbonate) can be used to ease bipolar disorders, mania, depression, mood disorders, and some other brain dysfunctions.  In some cases, it may act to reduce suicidal ideation. Some psychopharmacology experts entertain the idea that the lithium found in tomatoes, potatoes, cabbage, nutmeg, and many other foods provide lithium in a micronutrient profile sufficient to ward off more serious conditions from developing in otherwise average people, as in this NIH study. Barium is considered nontoxic for humans.  It is used because it shows up well on X-rays, allowing imaging of soft tissues like the gastrointestinal tract, or the bowels. The point is that medical science needs to know when these metals are present, and in what amounts, to determine if they are sufficient to keep us alive, or too plentiful and threatening that status.  Flame photometry can offer the fastest route to that answer. Non-Humans Animals have bodily fluids, too.  Collecting fish, frogs, turtles, insects, and so on, in lakes, rivers, and swamps is extremely revealing to environmental biologists about contamination and pollution of the natural habitats that keep our planet running and in balance.  Similarly, terrestrial creatures can tell us about land use (or abuse). Best of all, you don’t need to kill the sample providers—they can be catch-and-release.  It is to the researchers’ advantage to return them to their habitat to continue acting as field agents collecting more environmental information for them.  Dart guns are less harmful than bullets, as most animal activists will agree. Detecting unexpected increases early provides the opportunity to find pollution violators and solve problems before they become toxic hazards.  This is not just for wildlife, of course, but the cascade that will eventually impact us, the humans. The Takeaway Ultimately flame photometry is an incredibly useful science.  It is easy to master, with only a slight learning curve, allowing someone to become competent in just one day. Our unique and tough portable units are unlike any other company’s offering.  They can operate in the field as easily as in the lab.  In situ testing is just as reliable as laboratory work. Whether your customers, research studies, or contractors provide samples or hire you to assess environments, BWB has just the equipment you need to succeed. Give us a call today and let us set you on the road to success.  We have the tools that you need, and we would love to hear from you to help turn you into the expert provider that customers will seek out!

It would be nice if body scanners and handheld medical tricorders from Star Trek existed.  Indeed, something similar is already in limited use, with an equally competent real life tricorder-like device possible within the decade.  However, since the beloved Dr. Leonard McCoy isn’t due to be born until the year 2227, we’re going to have to make do with what we have now. Luckily, for primitive 21st century humans, BWB Flame Photometers are among the most advanced analysis equipment available for vital detection of alkali and alkali earth metals.  They crank out fast, reliable results at a rate up to 120 per hour or more, detailing all the metal ions at once, instead of requiring a complete test for each individual sample. To attain that speed, samples must be prepared beforehand.  The most basic requirement is that the sample be a solution, completely without solids.  It must be aspirated through a very fine needle into a flame to release the ions so they can produce the light we need for analysis. Bodily Fluids Blood, plasma, red cells, urine, etc., are best diluted (proportionally) to make sure when you’re testing for sodium and potassium (for example) that they will fall in the 100 ppm range whereas the Flame photometer offers its greatest accuracy for those substances. Calcium and Barium, on the other hand, are most accurately quantified closer to 300 ppm, though they can be detected at much lower levels.  If your sample is likely to fall in the 100 ppm range, you can vacuum evaporate it to one-third volume (to triple the concentration) and the flame photometer readout can be divided by three to give you a much more precise result than if you simply tested the 100 ppm solution. This is not strictly necessary, but rather entirely dependent on what your customer specifies as the required accuracy.  If you charge “X” for 3% accuracy, it makes sense to charge “X + x%” for higher levels like 1% or 0.5% accuracy because of the additional prep-work involved. Testing Solids For the testing of organic solids, the samples of known mass are burnt to ash, typically in a ceramic bowl, in a lab oven (furnace).  Once water loss is no longer detected it is removed from the oven, allowed to cool, and then treated with small quantities of Nitric acid, Perchloric Acid, Hydrochloric Acid (et al), which is all fine since hydrogen, oxygen, chlorine, nitrogen, and sulphur are not reactive enough to colour the low temperature flame of a photometer. Once the solids are “digested” the test solution can be strained through filter paper to remove any remaining bits that could clog the aspirator.  Add enough deionised water to make 100ml.  This is now your testing solution. Blank Solutions Generally, you’ll need to make a “blank” solution for calibration purposes.  If during processing of your sample you added 10 ml of Perchloric Acid, and 20 ml of Nitric Acid, those will have to be added to your blank solution, too.  This eliminates crosstalk (ionic interference), keeping the results accurate. Using a 100 ml flask, pour in 50 ml of deionised water (Safety tip: always add acid to water, and never add water to acid).  Now add precisely the same quantity of any acids used to prepare your test solution to the water, and then fill the flask to the 100 ml mark.  Label this “Blank Solution”. Standard Solutions Standard solutions can be purchased in high or very high concentrations to simply your work.  High (1,000 ppm) or very high (10,000 ppm) solutions are handy, inexpensive and increase efficiency.  Very High PPM solutions are quite durable when stored in glass containers that are well sealed.  Low PPM solutions (< 100 PPM) deionise quickly and render inaccurate results so should not be stored. You can make Standard Solutions, particularly if you use a lot of them very quickly and shipping in your country is sometimes unreliable.  Let’s quickly look at a Calcium Stock solution at 1,000 PPM. Weigh 2.498 grams of calcium carbonate and place in a 1,000 ml flask.  Add 100 ml of deionised water.  While stirring or agitating, add up to 20 ml of hydrochloric acid drop-by-drop until all the solids are dissolved.  Add more deionised water up to the 1,000 ml line and you now have your 1,000 PPM Calcium Stock Solution. Knowing how much calcium carbonate is needed to obtain the calcium concentration you require is a simple look-up online if you don’t have a chart in front of you.  Many people have done this before, so there is no need to reinvent the wheel! Set up as many 100 ml flasks as needed.  In the first flask place 0.5 ml of the Stock solution, in the second 1.0 ml, in the third 1.5 ml, and 2.0 ml in the fourth (continuing or altering until your requirements are met). When each flask is then filled with deionised water to the 100 ml line, these examples will render 5 PPM, 7.5 PPM, 10.0 PPM, 12.5 PPM, and so on (respectively).  Any concentration you need for calibrating is just a simple mathematical calculation away. The Takeaway One could invest in pricey high tech equipment such as a Gas Chromatograph or full-fledged Mass Spectrometer, but unless there is a clear need for such devices, it is definitely overkill.  They take time, report on a single sample element being investigated, they take time, require large amounts of consumables for each test, and they take time! Training time for those complex machines is much longer than on a Flame Photometer, particularly one from BWB Technologies, which is automated and computerised to make the whole process easier.  A new employee can be running tests and generating results and income in less than a day! If you need to be running tests for customers in medicine or bio-medicine, pharmacology, water treatment, agriculture, commercial food packaging, or innumerable other fields, BWB Tech is here to help you be the dependable, cost effective service provider that customers come to rely on every day!  Our people are always ready to help you to become that vital in-demand service that powers so many labs around the world.  Call us…we’d love to hear from you!

Just about every student that ever sat in a chemistry class where they conducted practical experiments has had occasion to put a lump of metal in a Bunsen Burner flame and generate a colour.  This manual method can allow them to identify the metal by the colour of the flame it generates in comparison to a chart of known colours for heated metals.  It’s simple and revelatory for the student. This “Wow!” or “Neat!” moment gives teachers a chance to explain that certain types of metals, when exposed to sufficient heat will colour the flame because ions are escaping the metal in a gaseous form.  This allows the valance electrons to jump up an energy level to an unstable state, but since that is not a tenable position for them, they shed a photon to get back to ground state. These photons are at very specific wavelengths for each element.  The colours and specific frequencies of light can inform us about the material we’re examining, but it is very crude information.  Comparing two metals with similar colours can lead to misidentification, and alloys can generate nearly unidentifiable mixes of colour when using this manual method. AES, or Atomic Emission Spectroscopy, often known simply as Flame Photometry, overcomes these difficulties and gives us much more precise information about a substance by using a spectroscope.  This setup is specifically useful for non-organic alkali metals and alkali-earth metals, such as sodium, potassium, beryllium, lithium, and calcium. By detecting the specific line spectrum that identifies your test substance, you can not only see that it is present, but by measuring the intensity of the light, also see “how much” is there.  You can capture both qualitative and quantitative data simultaneously. With modern Flame Photometry equipment like our own, you can read all of the measureable metals at the same time.  You don’t need to repeat the test up to five times per sample, thus making the process much more efficient. The first two metals shown here are both present in the readout show below in the third band.  The whole process is simple, fast, and far less expensive to get the results needed than more complex techniques. The Takeaway Instrumental measurements surpass manual methods by providing fast results, more accurate results, and more sensitive results.  By that we mean you can measure down to parts per million rather than “yes” or “no”.  Further, with automation, techniques don’t have to rely on a human that may not have gotten enough sleep last night, or just got home from a party, so your results can be very consistent for high volumes of testing on large batches. Humans are great, and we’ll probably always need them, but any time you can relieve tedium and use human brains for something creative that a machine cannot do is a great day!  It may be bioassays for medical research purposes that need a human present to make judgement calls, or continuous water sampling at a sewage treatment plant.  Bother are essential functions and Flame Photometry is almost always the fastest way to a useful result!

The best equipment in the world is useless without calibration.  Much has been done by BWB to automate the process with Flame Photometers for consistency, reliability, and repeatability.  While others lag behind, we’re making flame photometry better, faster, and more efficient. Our objective is to eliminate (as far as possible) human error by using an internal computerized process that tells the operator when to introduce the various solutions for calibration. Many existing flame photometers still require the user to stay in the lower concentration ranges, for example, of 50 ppm or less, and to manually calibrate using a “Blank” testing solution, and a “Standard” testing solution (more on those in a moment), and then read the results out directly from the meter or display. Otherwise, operators were required to manually plot a calibration curve for the Blank and several Standards, which were then interpolated from the graphing results.  So much work—and so many opportunities to introduce errors into the calculations! By automating the process as much as possible, telling the operator when to introduce the various liquids, the calibration curve is graphed automatically, using a Blank and a Standard preparation (or optionally more to enhance accuracy). Blanks & Standards So, what are these Blanks & Standards?  They are the very foundation for ensuring accuracy in Flame Photometer results! Standard Solutions Standards are solutions prepared with a single element being tested.  Standard solutions for Sodium might be 5ppm, 10, 25, 50, 70, 85, 100, 120, or any number you desire that covers the expected range of your sample or samples. Values, sometimes with ranges significantly higher or lower, are used for the other elements, including potassium, lithium, calcium, or barium.  In the latter case of barium, for example, you should not set a high value lower than 300 ppm because of sensitivity issues.  Lower values for barium standard solutions could decrease to as little as 50 for the sake of building the calibration curve, but higher is clearly better for accuracy. For example, with the barium thought… If you knew values would be in the low range, your test substance could be concentrated through evaporation.  Halving its volume would double the concentration, obviously.  You can therefore easily calculate that something reading 268ppm would really represent 134ppm, but be assured of a much higher accuracy rate in your final results. Blank Solutions Blank Solutions, on the other hand, contain all of the constituents of the standard solutions, with the exception of the element that is being tested.  Additionally, if a test sample also contains a quantity of hydrochloric acid, then the Blank Solution should contain the same quantity of HCL as the sample.  This avoids crosstalk, or ionic interference, and keeps the results accurate. Making Standards and Blanks Both of these solutions should be prepared or purchased as Stock Solutions in very high concentrations such as 10,000ppm.  They can be diluted to the necessary PPM when used, but low PPM solutions should not be stored since time causes ionic degradation rendering them inaccurate. World-wide “Never Flush Drugs” campaigns have had limited success.  It’s hard to impress the importance of returning unneeded drugs to the local chemist/pharmacist for proper disposal when people think “What’s the harm in flushing just three little Valium pills?”  Why is this important? All Standards and Blanks are prepared with diluents, typically deionized, distilled, or double-distilled (DD) water.  Conventional water supplies are rife with sodium, calcium, and potassium.  However, urban water supplies are often contaminated with barium and lithium from improper disposal of unused medications or industrial substances into the sanitary sewers.  It is vital to use the purest water available for preparing these solutions. Similarly, diluents should be stored in sealed (non-glass) containers so as not to be contaminated by airborne particles, or experience over-concentration due to the evaporative processes. Serial Dilutions Given a Stock Solution of 10,000ppm, a 1,000ppm solution is prepared by placing 10ml of stock in a 100ml volumetric flask, and filling with deionised water (distilled or DD water) to the 100ml mark. Decant this into a container marked 1,000ppm. Take 10ml of the new 1,000ppm solution, place it in a 100ml volumetric flask, and fill it with deionised water to the 100ml line.  Decant that into a new container marked 100ppm. Repeat the process again to make 10ppm and finally one more time to make 1ppm solution. It is a simple calculation to create a 50ppm solution, using 5ml of the 1,000ppm solution in the 100ml volumetric flask, or even 50 ml of the 100ppm solution, depending on need.  You are only limited by your ability to perform simple maths, and can get any needed PPM value. Scales It should be mentioned that industrial labs and medical labs use different measurements for their professions.  Most industrial processes use the PPM scale but medical facilities use the mol/L or mmol/L (moles or millimoles per litre) scale.  You can convert between these scales upon need. While it is possible to calculate the different values and switch between them using a constant called Avogadro’s Number which tells us one mol of any substance contains 6.02 x 1023 particles, it is time consuming.  As long as you know the atomic mass of the atom you are examining (e.g. sodium with a mass of 22.99 grams per mol) it is quicker to use an online converter or download one onto your own computer, just for the sheer speed and convenience. The Takeaway Using Standard Solutions provides reliable, consistent results.  BWB provides your new system with everything you need, right out of the box!  The only thing you need to provide is the fuel—propane, butane, or a commercial mixture combination called Liquid Petroleum Gas or LPG. Set up is quick and easy, and all the instructions are included.  If you are looking for the cutting edge in flame photometry, and a team that is always ready to support you, look no further than BWB. Give us a call today!  We would love to help you become the experts that customers rely on every day!

Using four basic components, a flame, nebuliser and mixing chamber, selective filters, and photo detectors, our Flame Photometers simultaneously detect and display five ions K, Na, Li, Ca, and Ba. Accurately determining the concentration of each within a given substance by measuring the intensity of light emitted when each element is exposed to a flame. The need to monitor levels of certain ingredients in food for health reasons means that flame photometers are commonly used within the food industry. For example, our newest flame photometry platform, the BWB Flash Flame Photometer, can be used to measure; Potassium and Sodium in Meat Potassium and Sodium in Bread Calcium in Fresh Fruit Calcium and Potassium in Cereals Sodium and Potassium in Dried Milk Sodium and Potassium in Cheese The levels of these ions in these different foods can be fascinating, for example, the amount of sodium in bread can differ significantly, depending upon brand and type of grain used, ranging from 592mg/100g to 748mg/100g. With this in mind, bread can contribute about one-sixth of daily salt intake. The level of sodium in bread is primarily due to the amount of salt added to the dough during manufacture. The amount of potassium is determined by the type of flour and the washing and bleaching operations during cereal processing. In terms of potassium, bread does not make a significant contribution to maximum daily requirements. Flame photometry is also well suited for the determination of sodium, potassium and calcium in fresh fruits. There are significant differences in the composition between different varieties of the same fruit, although these differences are not usually considered to be nutritionally significant. In general, calcium typically shows the greatest variability between different varieties of the same fruit. Based upon typical serving sizes, most fruits could not be considered as ‘good’ sources of calcium (defined as at least 10% of the Daily Value per serving). Most fruits contain very low levels of sodium and most could be considered as ‘sodium free foods’ (FDA, 1993), thus making fruit a good choice for individuals on sodium restricted diets. Potassium is also an important element in human nutrition and several fruits such as strawberries, bananas, avocados, cantaloupes, honeydew melon and plantains are considered to be good sources (providing at least 10% of the Daily Value). Full details of this research, including references, as well as procedures for measuring these ions can be found on the links below: Potassium and Sodium in Meat Potassium and Sodium in Bread Calcium in Fresh Fruit Calcium and Potassium in Cereals Sodium and Potassium in Dried Milk Sodium and Potassium in Cheese These links include advice on preparation, measurements, storage, key weight measurements and how to avoid challenges such as chemical interference. The BWB Flash Flame Photometer is the first simultaneous flame photometer with built-in compressor and configurable element analysis to your requirements. It detects and displays all calibrated ions at the same time and was created by combining the award-winning features of our XP model with new, innovative, and cutting-edge technology to provide unrivalled levels of accuracy, usability and reliability whilst significantly reducing analysis time. Key features include; Large 5" touch screen display compatible with the majority of disposable laboratory gloves True ease of use with large buttons and simple to understand text and symbols Built-in air compressor and gas regulator Calibration standards supplied as standard in 10,000ppm concentrations Auto-read technology enables operator independent determination of results User selectable decimal places IQ, OQ, PQ web-based certification available Complete set of basic labware included to get you started Click here to find out more about its applications in industries outside of the food sector, as well as technical data and FAQs. You can also contact us today for any further information.

BWB Technologies' flame photometer range consistently pushes the boundaries of low temperature flame photometry and 2023 has been no different! The approach of the New Year is a great time to look back so we thought we would highlight some key developments for BWB over the last year… Wide release of our brand new Flash Flame Photometer This year saw the wide release of BWB Flash, a brand new flame photometer that is specific to client needs. This new product is the first simultaneous flame photometer with built-in compressor and configurable element analysis to your requirements. The BWB Flash detects and displays all calibrated ions at the same time, it has an exceptionally low carbon footprint and includes a built-in air compressor and gas regulator. It is available in seven different models with a variety of different detection capabilities. The positive and excited feedback we’ve had from clients using the BWB Flash has undoubtedly been a highlight of 2023. Launching our new brand Innovation has always been at the heart of BWB and this year we updated our brand to truly reflect our ethos and ambitious extension plans. This includes a new logo that aligns with the cutting-edge products and services we offer, a new colour palette that maintains our core brand identity and a modernised font. As well as, approved distributor's badges to represent our global network of certified distributors. Our new brand highlights our dedication to staying at the forefront of our industry and gives us the opportunity to go into 2024 and beyond with a visual identity that reflects our enthusiasm for delivering the highest quality products and services. Arablab 2023 With visitors and exhibitors from 120+ countries worldwide, Arablab is the Lab Show for science, the environment and chemicals. BWB and our UAE distributor team had a fantastic time showcasing our extensive product range and introducing the new brand to key contacts in person. To quote one member of the team; “There was a brilliant atmosphere at Arablab and it was great to have so many insightful conversations - definitely a highlight of 2023!” Winter holidays This has been a busy year for our team so we're rewarding them with a longer than usual break to give them a chance to recover with their families ready for the New Year. Our manufacturing and office facility will be closed from 22 Dec and reopen on 09 January. Please note that phones will not be answered during this time and emails will have considerable delays.

By Hozan Edwards As a global company with offices in Europe, America and the Middle East, BWB is committed to remaining at the cutting edge of flame photometry year on year. As well as ensuring we have a team of experts who are passionate about exploring the latest technological advances, we are constantly looking for ways to evolve the BWB brand to ensure it reflects our ethos and ambitious expansion plans. Innovation has always been at the heart of our company, and we believe that our brand should reflect this. I’m thrilled to announce that the first part of this evolution is a new logo that aligns with the cutting-edge products and services we offer. Our goal was to maintain the essence of our previous design and colour scheme while giving it a modern twist that aligns with the latest trends in digital marketing. The colours are instantly recognisable as BWB to maintain our core brand identity, but the font has been modernised and the logo now contains a device to represent flame photometry and provide the team with a versatile branding tool that can be used across several marketing assets. To reflect our growing worldwide presence, we have also created international variants of the logo. BWB is a UK-based company but wherever you are located, we can offer fast, efficient and advanced global support directly or through our network of certified distributors. This means we always have a native speaking distributor who can guide our customers through onboarding, organise swift delivery of any extra or replacement parts, and help answer any questions you may have. It was therefore incredibly important to me to incorporate our approved distributor's badges into the rebranding process, this mark of approval gives our customers the confidence that they are purchasing our products from distributors that share our values. An ongoing element of this process is our new website. We've invested significant time and effort into its development, resulting in a sleek and modern interface that not only represents our brand but also enhances the user experience. Like all companies committed to growth, we see our website as a constantly evolving tool that we plan to update regularly. For me, this is a key step in our brand and marketing reflecting who we are as an organisation. There are a number of other exciting developments I can’t talk about yet but one thing that won’t ever change is our enthusiasm for delivering the highest quality products and service. Our new brand reflects this and I am so excited about the possibilities this branding refresh brings to our company and how it reflects our dedication to staying at the forefront of our industry. Hozan Edwards Managing Director

Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (AES), or Flame Photometry, as it is more commonly known, has a surprisingly large range of uses. Most people think of bioassays when the topic comes up. Few talk about industrial manufacturing, quality control, pollution monitoring, remote sensing, process automation, or other topics. Technological innovations have allowed Flame Photometers to penetrate many markets. They now feature high reliability, the ability to operate continuously with little maintenance, and even remote control options for distance monitoring. This leads to automation components that automatically sample and then dilute a sample of approximately known concentration to a range where the machine can report the most accurate results. Medicinal research Of course, sodium and potassium levels in blood and tissues are important because those are our body’s electrolytes. Without them, you could not live since even an electrolyte imbalance can be fatal, as discovered too late in a tragic story about a radio station promoting a water drinking contest to win a Nintendo Wii. The contestant drank about three litres of water one after the other, collected her prize, went home with a bad headache, and died from water poisoning within hours. Her electrolytes were so diluted that her body’s regulatory system failed. Had she gone directly to medical help because of the severe headache, they might have been able to rebalance her sodium and dehydrate her in time. Knowing all of these levels can help with the diagnosis of many disease processes. Calcium levels can be diagnostic for assessing bone disease; lithium levels can help judge the effectiveness of medications; and, of course, potassium and sodium can help identify deficiencies leading to cognitive impairment, neurological failure, and paucity or toxicity for the whole body. Pharmacology Testing drugs to make sure they have the correct amount of the claimed ingredients is vital for safety. As well, the glass or plastic vials for vaccines are tested to see if they elute contaminants into the medicine before such containers are approved for use. The same testing is done for IV (intravenous) bags. Once filled with ionic solutions of sodium or potassium reagents, those, too, are tested to make sure they comply with the package claims. Quality Control This is quite a broad area in and of itself. Personal protective equipment (PPE) for example must meet certain standards. N95 masks, for example, must resist moisture, saliva, and viruses. Filtering Face Pieces (FFP) in Class 3 must meet this requirement, too, whereas FFP 1 & 2 designs are less useful for going into COVID-19 environments, and dealing with viruses, airborne water droplets, or dust. These are tested by placing the test mask between a pressurized chamber filled with vaporized saline solution and anything that passes through the mask goes to the Flame Photometer which is set to detect sodium from the saline. How much passes through determines the rating for the FFP; for QA (Quality Assurance) testing it must meet its stated rating to be sold. Food Industry The food “final product” whether a can of soup, a bag of frozen peas, or a candy bar must meet the specifications declared on the label. If something says Sodium………………45 mg per 40 gram serving, then you can rely on that number being accurate. Beyond testing the actual end product, they also test the ingredients all during the process to make sure everything will work out in the end. Applesauce will vary depending on the input apples for each batch, so adjustments will be made during manufacturing so they don’t have to re-label their cans or bottles for each batch. It may call for adding some low-potassium apples, or high sodium apples, or even just a touch of salt to make sure they hit those exact numbers each time. This is even more important with products like infant formula to make sure babies get all the nutrients they need for their fast growing bodies. In the meat production industry, random samples of mechanically deboned meat are burned to ash and then tested for their calcium levels in order to detect if they are contaminated by too much bone from the butchering process. Water Desalination Processes Whether you’re using a solar mirror array to boil water to steam or accomplishing that with nuclear or hydroelectric power, humans need non-brackish water for crops, and drinking. By installing remotely monitored Flame Photometer stations throughout the process, deviations and errors can be discovered long before the entire process is affected. An unmanned testing station can monitor water quality continuously, reporting to a central location. There, a human can deal with difficulties before they become serious problems. Indeed, even that might be partially automated so that water that is higher salinity than permitted is automatically shunted back to an earlier process to be treated again, all without human intervention. Even soda pop is now monitored for sodium and potassium content. The major brands are so concerned with consistency for their products that they would do it anyway, even if it wasn’t required by law. They require local bottling plants to pass local water through three one-storey tall, massive sand filters before it can even be introduced to their beverage making process! Travelers Trick: If you’re ever concerned about the water quality when traveling just drink the major beverage brands (without ice!) and you won’t find anything purer or safer. Soil Analysis Whether it is soil for a farmer’s field, tailings from a mine, or actual production from a salt mine, the accuracy of flame photometry is relied upon for analysis and to protect the environment. Farm field soil may have too much fertilizer and the run off may be hazardous. By tracking the potassium fraction, the phosphorous and nitrogen components can be deduced, and money can be saved by not applying more fertilizer than is actually needed. If there is a particularly wet season and runoff is unavoidable, these same tests can be run on affected bodies of water. It is then possible to start remediation processes to restore the normal balance for the environment. Wastewater Management Water treatment plants continuously monitor sodium, potassium, lithium, calcium, barium, and several others. Generally speaking, water comes from a higher point and is discharged at a lower point since gravity makes this the easiest way to function. Precipitating any “bad” stuff keeps the environmental impact low. In some low-lift situations, where there is little difference between the influent and effluent levels, wastewater is partially recirculated once treated, especially where water is ordinarily scarce. It is doubly important to make sure the water is potable before sending it back into the system. FP monitoring makes this a reasonably simple process. Concrete Evidence & the Chemical Industry Like all the other industries mentioned, Flame Photometers play an important role in production control and process monitoring in the chemical industry. One perfect example is the cement industry. If you have ever seen a concrete structure deteriorating, it may be because of Concrete Cancer. When the Romans invented concrete, they knew that certain additives like crushed and burned bone were essential and would make it incredibly strong. They also discovered that if they didn’t use these techniques, concrete wouldn’t set properly underwater. The piers that they made for their ships are still there; some are in use; some have sunk below water level as the seafloor settled beneath them, but an astonishing number are still intact. Concrete Cancer is caused by the presence of excessive sodium and potassium in the mix which makes the material flake and crack. Conversely, the presence of calcium makes the concrete even stronger. Flame photometry reveals these substances early, allowing mitigation to take place before the cement is blended into concrete. Overall, the chemical industry relies on reproducibility so anyone with the same process and materials can do exactly the same thing. Flame photometry is a welcome addition to any lab because of its remarkable consistency and reliability, making the job much easier. If you want your work to be more consistent and reliable, give us a call today so we can make you the experts in your field with faultless results and great data and products! We’d love to hear from you!

Flame Photometers and Spectrophotometers are both analytical instruments used in the process of chemical analysis. They differ significantly in their principles of operation, and the type of measurements they can make. Each, however, has its particular niche to fill, and both are great at what they do! The Flame Photometer This instrument is used to measure the concentration of some specific metal ions in a solution. It is specifically designed to analyse the concentration of alkali metals (such as sodium, potassium, and lithium) and alkaline earth metals (such as calcium and barium) in a given sample. The principle behind a Flame Photometer's operation is based on the characteristic emission of light by these metal ions when they are heated in a Flame. This is also known as the principle of atomic emission spectroscopy. How it works A sample is introduced, suspended in a liquid carrier via an extremely fine tube encircled by a high pressure airstream, to a tightly controlled Flame. The liquid sample is atomised by the sheering forces of the airstream. The heat produced by the Flame instantly evaporates the carrier and the metal atoms are left to absorb the resultant heat, exciting the atom’s electrons. This raises the valence electrons to higher energy levels and they jump to a higher energy state (orbital). Since this excited state is unnatural, they drop back down to the ground state and emit a photon to rid themselves of the excess energy. This photon produces visible light at very specific wavelengths characteristic of each metal. Every substance has a different and unique pattern of emissions. A set of filters (or a monochromator) is used to isolate the strongest and most uniquely identifying wavelengths of interest for each metal. The intensity of the emitted light at that selected wavelength is directly proportional to the concentration of the metal ion in the sample. Consequently, by comparing the intensity of the emitted light to a set of known standards, the concentration of the metal ion can be determined, correlating it (quantitatively) to the amount of the metal ion concentration in the sample. Applications Flame Photometers are regularly used in clinical laboratories, for wastewater and environmental monitoring, and for agricultural testing to measure the soil or growing medium concentration of specific metal ions. The Spectrophotometer A Spectrophotometer, on the other hand, is a more versatile instrument used to measure the absorption or transmission of light by a sample at different wavelengths. Its samples need not be in a liquid state like a Flame Photometer. In fact, it can analyse a wide range of substances, including coloured compounds, biomolecules, and even chemical reactions that involve light absorption or emission. How it works The Spectrophotometer consists of a light source, a monochromator, a sample holder (cuvette), and a detector. Its light source emits a broad spectrum of light including ultraviolet, visible, or infrared. Similar to some models of Flame Photometer, the Spectrophotometer uses a monochromator to isolate a very specific wavelength of light to illuminate the sample. The sample absorbs some of the incident light at the selected wavelength, and the remaining light passes through the sample to reach the detector. The detector “knows” the value of the original source light and after measuring the intensity of the transmitted light, determines the value of the absorbed light. This data is subsequently used to calculate the overall absorbance or transmittance of the sample. This can be repeated with many different frequencies of light to create a detailed map of the sample’s qualities. Spectrophotometers are widely used in analytical chemistry to determine the concentration of a substance by measuring the absorption or transmission of light by the sample at a specific wavelength. The relationship between the concentration and the amount of light absorbed is governed by the Beer-Lambert law. It can also be used to identify substances based on their characteristic absorption spectra. As noted, different compounds have unique absorption patterns, allowing scientists to identify unknown substances in a sample. As a result, Spectrophotometers lend themselves to be used in both qualitative and quantitative analysis, depending on the needs or application. Applications Spectrophotometers enjoy extensive applications in a number of fields, including chemistry, physics, DNA and protein analysis, biochemistry, biology, environmental science for pollution and water quality, molecular biology, pharmaceuticals, and numerous other scientific areas. They are also useful in industrial applications, such as the textile industry, paints, and the food industry to measure the colour of substances and products. They are frequently used to determine the concentration of various analytes, to study the kinetics of chemical reactions, in enzyme-catalysed reactions to measure enzymatic activity, and to classify or identify unknown compounds—and the list goes on and on… Surprisingly, they are even used in astronomy to assess how far light has travelled to get to Earth. The Takeaway Flame Photometers are widely used in various fields, including environmental analysis, agricultural research, clinical chemistry, and industrial quality control. They are especially valuable in laboratories for rapid and accurate measurement of metal ions, and they offer a cost-effective alternative to more complex and expensive analytical techniques for these specific elements. Flame Photometers excel in biomedical applications and uses where fast (and often “bulk”) identification is needed for a very specific range of substances. Spectrophotometers, on the other hand, are more useful for identifying a much broader range of solid substances or things that don’t lend themselves to being in a liquid state. While this application could be useful in a hospital setting, for example, finding excessive lead concentration in a bone sample, it is a comparatively slow process designed for diagnostics over an extended period. In comparison, Flame Photometers offer virtually instant results which, in that scenario, could save lives when time is of the essence. What we can conclude is that both Flame Photometers and Spectrophotometers are useful; both are necessary; and, in fact, they do not conflict in function. In essence, the main difference between the Flame Photometer and the Spectrophotometer is in how they are used and the types of measurements of which they are capable.

A flame photometer is an instrument used to measure the concentration of certain specific elements in a sample. This is based on the emission of characteristic light for each substance when nebulised (or atomised) so that it may be introduced into a stable flame. This conversion is required because the flame photometer analyses the metal ion concentrations only in the vapour phase rather than the liquid phase. Once the water is evaporated by the flame those single atoms are electronically stimulated, not from solid state circuitry, of course, but in the very literal sense that their electrons are energised by the flame. This causes the electrons to ascend to a higher and unstable orbital position around the nucleus, but this state cannot be maintained so the electron drops back down to its normal position. In the process it emits a photon (to rid itself of the excess energy) of an extremely specific colour or frequency. This repeats endlessly as long as they are in the flame and can gain energy. The substances that we analyse most often are the alkali metals and alkali earths Barium, Calcium, Lithium, Potassium, and Sodium. The nebuliser is one of the most vital components of the flame photometer that helps put the atoms into the right state so they can be introduced into the flame for analysis. The nebuliser's primary function is to convert a liquid sample into a fine aerosol, which can then be easily vaporised in the flame. The sample is usually a Double Distilled (DD) water neutral solution alternated with solutions to be examined containing the elements of interest. Nebulisers must be carefully designed and then engineered to produce absolute consistency; their outputs are critical for achieving accurate and precise measurements in flame photometry. Under-engineered nebulisers will never produce dependable, quantitative results, amounting to little more than guesswork! Three Methodologies Electrothermal Nebulisation Just to be complete, we’ll mention all three types of nebulisation, though two rarely concern us. The least common is Electrothermal Nebulisation which is used to analyse solid materials that don’t lend themselves to dissolution in water or other liquid or gas carriers. By heating a sample (say a lump of coal) vapours can be created that can then be directed to the flame for analysis. Ultrasonic Nebulisation If you have observed a table top or desktop humidifier, you have probably seen ultrasonic nebulisation. A piezoelectric transducer sits beneath a layer of water, and generates ultrasonic vibrations. This creates waves that strongly interfere with one another and provides enough mechanical energy to kick loose molecules of water at the surface producing a dense mist. Since such units are enclosed, providing only a small outlet on top, the intrinsic pressure of constant solitary molecule creation drives the vapour out the top with no need for a fan or pump of any kind. Although such a thing can be used for monitoring a flow, such as at a wastewater treatment plant, it is not used in the laboratory because the photometer would have to be purged and cleaned after each test requiring a shut down and reset. This is far too inefficient for a working laboratory. Pneumatic Nebulisation This is, of course, the optimal solution from testing dozens or hundreds of samples extremely rapidly. Utilising Bernoulli’s Principle, a high velocity stream of gas passes over a small capillary tube creating a low pressure area so that liquid flows up the small tube freely from its reservoir. When the sample reaches the compressed air stream, the sheering forces rip off individual molecules turning them into an ultrafine mist ideally suited for introduction into the detector flame. In many cases this ultrafine mist creation happens at the very base of the flame for maximum consistency. The Takeaway Ultimately, the flame photometer relies on the nebuliser for its function. Having created the perfect mist, the interaction with the flame produces consistent light, which is fed to a detector. This might be a photomultiplier tube or a photodiode array, which captures the emitted light, quantifies it to determine how much “test substance” is present (based on calibration curves) and produces a solid result that you can take to the bank. Of course the best flame photometers are crated right here, at BWB, and we would be pleased to show you how you can make your lab better, faster, more accurate, and respected industry-wide for consistent results. Call us today and let’s talk!

Introduction: In the realm of analytical chemistry, flame photometry stands tall as a reliable and widely-used technique for determining the concentration of certain elements in a sample. This sensitive method depends on the measurement of emitted light from atoms that are excited in a flame. However, to ensure accurate and consistent results, calibration of flame photometers is of paramount importance. In this blog post, we will delve into the significance of flame photometer calibration and how it plays a critical role in obtaining precise analytical data. Understanding Flame Photometry: Flame photometry, also known as flame emission spectroscopy, utilises the unique characteristic emission spectra of elements when subjected to high temperatures in a flame. The process involves atomising the sample by introducing it into a flame and then observing the light emitted as the atoms relax from their excited states to the ground state. Each element emits light at specific wavelengths, and by measuring this emission, the concentration of the target element can be determined. The Importance of Calibration: Calibration is a fundamental process that bridges the gap between the observed signal and the actual concentration of the element in the sample. It establishes a relationship between the instrument's response and the analyte's concentration, enabling accurate quantification. Without calibration, the measurements obtained from a flame photometer would be arbitrary and meaningless, rendering the entire analysis futile. Correcting Instrumental Deviations: Flame photometers, like any other analytical instrument, are susceptible to instrumental deviations and variations. These could be caused by factors such as drift in the optical system, changes in the flame conditions, and electronic fluctuations. Calibration ensures that any instrumental biases are corrected and the results remain accurate over time. Ensuring Linearity: One critical aspect of calibration is establishing linearity. Linearity refers to the instrument's ability to provide a proportional response to changes in the analyte's concentration. Calibration curves constructed with known standard solutions enable the determination of this linearity range. This information is essential for accurately measuring analyte concentrations, especially when dealing with complex sample matrices. Accounting for Sensitivity and Limit of Detection (LOD): The sensitivity of a flame photometer, defined as the change in instrument response per unit change in analyte concentration, is determined through calibration. Additionally, the limit of detection (LOD), which represents the lowest concentration of an analyte that can be reliably detected but not necessarily quantified, is also established during calibration. Knowing the sensitivity and LOD aids in gauging the instrument's ability to detect trace amounts of the target element. Compensating for Matrix Effects: Sample matrices can significantly impact analytical results, leading to matrix effects. Calibration with standards that mimic the sample matrix helps compensate for these effects, resulting in more accurate measurements. Failing to address matrix effects can lead to erroneous data, jeopardising the reliability of the entire analytical process. Quality Control and Data Validation: Calibration is a critical component of quality control in analytical laboratories. Regular calibration checks using certified reference materials (CRMs) and quality control samples enable the validation of results, ensuring the accuracy and precision of the analysis. A well-calibrated flame photometer contributes to generating reliable data, thus fostering confidence in decision-making processes. Compliance and Accreditation: In many industries and research fields, adherence to specific standards and regulations is mandatory. Accreditation bodies often require laboratories to demonstrate proper instrument calibration protocols as part of their quality assurance practices. Compliance with such requirements assures clients and stakeholders that the laboratory's analytical processes meet stringent quality standards. Conclusion: The calibration of a flame photometer is an indispensable aspect of analytical chemistry. It provides the foundation for obtaining accurate, reliable, and reproducible results. By compensating for instrumental deviations, establishing linearity, accounting for sensitivity and LOD, and mitigating matrix effects, calibration ensures that the flame photometer performs optimally. Moreover, it facilitates data validation, quality control, and compliance with industry standards. In summary, proper calibration is the key to unlocking the full potential of flame photometry, making it an indispensable tool in analytical laboratories across various disciplines.

Safety is a vital part of any laboratory task. College and University graduates, in any profession which includes lab-work, know basic laboratory rules; experts made sure they understood the proper techniques during their training. One of the most basic tenets of lab work is that “Hot glass looks exactly the same as cold glass”…so much so that it has become a rather familiar joke. If you treat all laboratory glass as if it is hot, you’ll probably never get burned by glass. Common Sense is your Super Power Chimneys are a different matter. They were designed to carry away excess heat and the gases of combustion, along with any toxic by-products produced. Generally provided with an inner core for its primary function, an insulating air-gap, and a cooler outer protective surround, even that outer chimney cover can get remarkably hot during operation. Don’t touch it. Good flame photometers come equipped with a spark and flame arrestor for safety, but that doesn’t mean you can look down the chimney during operation, or especially during lighting procedures. Use the flame window for inspection, and avoid setting hair, clothing, or jewellery alight. Not incidentally, you also avoid breathing in any concentrated by-products of the combustion process. Invisible Threats Yes, that’s right—there can be toxic vapours produced either from unknown components in the sample solutions, or as gases that evolve as part of the process of testing. Typically the amounts are small but, over time, they can accumulate in the lab atmosphere in sufficient quantities to cause harmful effects under poor ventilation conditions. Exhaust hoods are never a bad idea, and are a requirement where multiple stations are in use. Indeed, this is particularly true when examining biological materials which can contain their own unique hazards. Physical Threats Aside from the invisible hazards (try detecting an odourless gas by sense of smell—Good luck!), there are physical hazards, too. Always turn it off when it is unattended! Other workers might not realise it is functioning and harm themselves. A flame photometer, by its very nature, requires a fuel to burn to sustain the flame. It’s always a good idea to check all connections for your gas lines, particularly if a new fuel container has been installed. Detecting gas leaks can be accomplished with a handheld portable gas-sniffer around each coupling, or more economically, with a solution of water with some dish detergent in a spray bottle so bubbles will be apparent from a leak. Another option is a commercially available colour changing aerosol spray, but ultimately this will be even more expensive than a digital sniffer over the years. In most cases, gas explosions are prevented by excellent build and design. In the rare case where it occurs (such as a poor connexion to the fuel supply), such events should be minor and scary, rather than dangerous, but even a tiny detonation could still impel something onto your clothes, skin, or into your eyes. Hair-ties or hairnets are extremely economical, so make use of them, not only to stay safe, but to avoid contaminating your work area. Most lab coats are flame retardant and help to keep loose street-clothing under control; simple latex or nitrile gloves can protect your hands; finally, goggles or safety glasses are vital for your eyes. Clothes can be replaced, skin can grow back, but eyes are a once-in-a-lifetime offer, so don’t risk them. You’re working with water and electricity, as well as fire, so keep the work area dry and tidy to make sure these factors don’t become connected in a threatening manner. The Takeaway A friend once asked me to smell her scented candle claiming that it was cinnamon or something like that. I couldn’t detect the scent she mentioned as it actually smelled overwhelmingly like flaming nose hair… Your common sense will work in concert with the great engineering that goes into each of our units to keep you safe. Personal safety works particularly well as long as you don’t ignore what your common sense is telling you. Some observers point out that Common Sense may not be as “common” as we think it is. Let’s prove them wrong! Meanwhile, watch this space for more entertaining articles, and please feel free to contact us if you have any questions about our equipment. We would be delighted to hear from you!

In various scientific fields, particularly in analytical chemistry and biology, researchers often encounter the terms LOD and LOQ. These acronyms refer to the Limit of Detection and the Limit of Quantification, respectively. While they may sound technical, understanding these concepts is crucial for assessing the reliability and accuracy of analytical measurements. In this blog post, we will delve into the meaning of LOD and LOQ and their practical significance in the real world. Limit of Detection (LOD): The Limit of Detection represents the lowest concentration of a sample that can be reliably distinguished from a blank and where detection is feasible. To calculate the LOD, a simple and commonly used method involves multiplying the standard deviation of a series of blank readings (usually around 20) by three. This approach assumes that the majority of readings fall within three standard deviations. However, due to the inherent statistical variation, some overlap may occur between the blank and LOD concentrations. Consequently, it is possible for a blank sample to occasionally yield a result within the LOD range, and vice versa. Limit of Quantification (LOQ): In contrast to the LOD, the Limit of Quantification denotes the lowest concentration at which a sample can be reliably detected while meeting predefined criteria for bias and imprecision. Similar to LOD, LOQ is determined using a straightforward approach. It involves multiplying the standard deviation of the blank readings by ten. This multiplication factor provides a substantial safety margin, ensuring a reduced likelihood of false results. Real-World Implications: Understanding LOD and LOQ has profound implications in various scientific and industrial applications. Let's explore a few examples: Environmental Monitoring: In environmental studies, researchers may analyse water or air samples to detect pollutants or contaminants. LOD and LOQ values help determine the minimum concentration at which these substances can be reliably identified. This information is vital for assessing potential risks and compliance with regulatory standards. Pharmaceutical Analysis: In drug development and quality control, LOD and LOQ play a crucial role. Pharmaceutical companies rely on these limits to determine the minimum concentration at which a drug substance or impurity can be accurately measured. Maintaining strict control over LOD and LOQ ensures the safety, efficacy, and consistency of medications. Forensic Science: Forensic laboratories employ LOD and LOQ in analysing trace evidence such as DNA, drugs, or toxic substances. By establishing the lowest detectable concentrations, forensic scientists can provide reliable evidence in criminal investigations and legal proceedings. In conclusion, the Limit of Detection (LOD) and Limit of Quantification (LOQ) are fundamental concepts in analytical sciences. LOD defines the lowest concentration at which a sample can be reliably distinguished from a blank, while LOQ represents the minimum concentration at which predefined goals for bias and imprecision are met. These limits are essential for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of analytical measurements across various scientific fields. By understanding LOD and LOQ, researchers can make informed decisions, comply with regulations, and maintain the quality of their work.

If you’ve ever gone camping, built a fire, and tossed in one of those coloured-flame-generating cubes, you’re already halfway to understanding how a flame photometer works. Those cubes are a combustible mixture of paraffin (wax), woodchips or sawdust, and some tiny particles assorted metals in dust form. As the wax and wood burn away, metal particles are exposed to the flame and flare up with novel and unexpected colours. As they ionise it allows electrons to move between their ordinary orbital position and one higher. As they inevitably drop back to their normal state, they will emit a photon that has a precise energy related to the specific material, expressed as a colour frequency. The result is an entertaining fountain of unexpected colour with green, purple, orange, red, and blue flames. Copper or Boron produces green, copper chloride blue, sodium yellow, strontium red, potassium purple, and so on… It’s basically a rather hypnotic light show after the parents turn off the Wi-Fi hotspot and tell the kids to turn off their phones. How does it work? Back to the more practical matters of using flame photometry in the lab… Let’s look a little closer at the components and processes that allow flame photometers to deliver their near instant results. With just a brief set up period, and at a stunning low price point compared to other methodologies, you can easily assay for the presence of five of the most useful alkali or alkaline earth metals. These are Sodium, Potassium, Lithium, Calcium, and Barium. The Basic Parts Fire, Air, and Filters The flame, of course, is right in the name, and it is generally powered by a compressed gas cylinder or natural gas from a town supply. For consistency, it also requires a non-pulsed, regulated air supply so the flame is steady, contributing as little as possible to the colour results of the testing. To aid with that many units are equipped with a blue absorption filter to pass only the light generated by the ionisation process, and not the flame itself. Our units are equipped with a customised, built-in air compressor for extreme consistency. This avoids the complications of external compressors that need oil and maintenance, which can affect your results. In addition, our flame photometers are set up to run with propane, liquid propane, natural gas, or even butane, and all without requiring any user adjustments. Atomisation Next is the nebuliser and mixing chamber. The nebuliser portion follows the same principle that powered the pre-aerosol-age atomiser perfume bottle, which had a squeeze bulb to force air over a venturi to draw up liquid perfume and then turn it into an ultrafine mist in the air stream. You can see the same principle at work with hand pumped spray cleaners but the bulb has been replaced with a modern piston. The fast airstream passing over the sample tube tip uses the Bernoulli Principle to sheer off microscopic samples constantly. Once in this atomised or nebulised state the fuel-air mixture carries the sample to the base of the flame, introducing it to the blaze where the water evaporates. This leaves salts of the metal ions behind which then change state (just like our campfire example from earlier). The salts react with the heat, with their electrons moving from ground state to excited state and back to ground state, over and over again, emitting photons at specific wavelengths. The nebulisers primary function is therefore, to reliably supply a consistent, homogenous sample to the flame in a highly regulated and predictable way. For consistency, the nebuliser ordinarily supplies De-Ionised (DI) water to the flame when there is no sample, which does not affect the flame’s colour. Prepared samples are substituted for the DI water, and the flame responds with a distinctive colour change, if the metal being sought is present. Colour The next component makes use of the colour and its intensity generated by the ions and heat to quantify how much of the substance is present. In traditional models filters were used to absorb unwanted portions of the spectrum, allowing only the precise frequency produced by the desired metal. This called for you to select which atom you were measuring and move its exclusion filter into place so only the desired light would pass through to the photodetector. In advanced models, such as ours, there are multiplexed photoreceptors, each designed to read only a very specific part of the light spectrum representing the metal being sought. By focusing only on extremely specific frequencies, it is possible to sense all testable metals at the same time. The older technology of filters and slits has been replaced by these hypersensitive photoreceptors giving much more accurate results. It also speeds up the entire process as it allows multiple detections in a single operation. Built-in amplifiers (aka photomultipliers) have also increased detection capabilities by whole orders of magnitude over historical versions. These advances have certainly paid off. While early models would drift from their settings more easily, modern units stay within specifications for extended periods. Quantifiable results are produced that are much more reliable and meaningful than in previous iterations. Future developments Now, don’t be apprehensive, but here is a (very) little quantum physics for you. Hydrogen has only one electron, and all orbitals (positions where that electron can be) have the same energy requirement. This only occurs with hydrogen and the orbitals are called “degenerate” for that reason. Every other atom has higher and higher energy requirements for each higher orbital change. However, when you create an ion of hydrogen it has no electron. Give it an electron and it returns to base state—there is no photon emitted therefore it doesn’t contribute any colour to the flame. A hydrogen-oxygen flame is nearly colourless but for a very faint blue tinge. It can be the perfect fuel for flame photometry for a number of reasons. Eventually, in the future we may even see Flame Photometers running exclusively on hydrogen. The advantage is that it burns 200 Cº hotter than propane, and 500 Cº hotter than butane when using plain air as the oxidant. Naturally, this will extend the capabilities of Flame Photometers, but the real reward is the reduction of operating costs. Using an environmentally friendly fuel that is highly cost effective is the real incentive. Table-top hydrogen generators can safely produce quantities of hydrogen gas from nothing more than distilled water. It is available “on-demand” with no need to store it, thus overcoming the intrinsic leaking problem entirely. Typically hydrogen generators produce half a litre per minute, so it is nearly impossible to get an explosive quantity. Such units are extremely efficient and safe. Ultimately, this means that after the generator is paid for, your fuel is “free” except for the trivial costs of electricity and distilled water. Your fuel costs drop to almost nothing annually and your operation is resultantly “greener” by eliminating the whole “delivery process” impact—which is good for your company reputation. The Takeaway We have a number of models covering all possible needs, whether you’re working in soil analysis, nuclear (lithium) assays, manufacturing sugar, synthetic fuels, or performing bio-assays in hospital labs. If we don’t sell exactly what you want, our R&D team can custom design a machine to precisely suit your needs. If you don’t have a fully-fledged list of necessities, please call and let us help select the best model for your requirements. We want to put a BWB Technologies Flame Photometer in your hands so you can see for yourself what you’ve been missing! We would love to help you today!

BWB Technologies Ltd (BWB), a leading provider of cutting-edge Flame photometers proudly announces its association with the Prompt Payment Code (PPC). The company's commitment to responsible payment practices and ethical business conduct aligns perfectly with the Code's objectives of fostering prompt and fair payment procedures. The PPC, administered by the Small Business Commissioner on behalf of the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), sets rigorous standards for payment practices and best practice. BWB recognises the importance of maintaining strong relationships with its suppliers and partners. By adhering to the principles outlined in the PPC, the company demonstrates its dedication to supporting fair and efficient payment processes throughout its supply chain. The Small Business Commissioner, tasked with overseeing the regulation and governance of the PPC and its signatories, plays a pivotal role in ensuring compliance and investigating any reported violations. BWB Technologies Ltd welcomes this oversight, as it reinforces the company's commitment to upholding the highest ethical standards in its payment practices. Joining the PPC signifies BWB’s adherence to the following key criteria: Paying suppliers on time: The company recognises the importance of honouring its financial obligations to suppliers promptly, facilitating their operational stability and growth. Providing clear guidance to suppliers: BWB understands that transparent communication is crucial to establishing strong working relationships and ensuring mutual understanding of payment terms. Encouraging good practice: The company actively promotes fair payment practices within its organisation and encourages its suppliers to do the same, fostering a culture of integrity and accountability. Paying 95% of all invoices within 60 days: BWB consistently strives to meet or exceed this benchmark, reinforcing its commitment to timely payment and financial stability for its suppliers. Paying 95% of all invoices within 30 days for small businesses: Recognising the unique challenges faced by small businesses, BWB prioritises prompt payment to smaller suppliers with fewer than 50 employees. Avoiding practices with adverse effects on the supply chain: The company diligently avoids any practices that may disrupt the smooth functioning of the supply chain, acknowledging the importance of a sustainable and cooperative business ecosystem. By associating with the Prompt Payment Code, BWB Technologies Ltd demonstrates its unwavering dedication to fostering fair payment practices, supporting its suppliers, and maintaining a robust and sustainable supply chain. The company firmly believes that these principles contribute to the overall health and success of the business community, driving economic growth and prosperity for all stakeholders involved. BWB encourages other organisations within the industry to follow suit and join the Prompt Payment Code, emphasising the positive impact of responsible payment practices on the broader business landscape. For more information about BWB Technologies Ltd and its association with the Prompt Payment Code, please contact: Hozan Edwards – marketing@bwbtech.com About BWB Technologies Ltd: BWB Technologies Ltd is a leading provider of cutting-edge Flame Photometers with a strong commitment to innovation, quality, and ethical business practices, BWB consistently delivers exceptional products and services to its global clientele. By fostering strong relationships with suppliers and partners, the company contributes to the growth and success of the broader business community.

Combustion, a widely known chemical reaction, is a process of releasing energy through the use of diatomic oxygen. This exothermic reaction generates carbon dioxide and water from a fuel source. In the field of analytical chemistry, specifically flame photometry, combustion plays a crucial role. Here we will delve into the concept of combustion, explore the combustion fuels utilised in flame photometry, explain the temperature differences between propane and butane, and discuss the application of combustion in flame photometry. Understanding Combustion: Combustion, as mentioned earlier, is an exothermic process that liberates heat energy by combining a fuel source with oxygen. This chemical reaction is widely recognised and utilised in various industrial, commercial, and domestic applications. It involves the rapid oxidation of the fuel source, releasing carbon dioxide and water vapour as by-products. Combustion Fuels in Flame Photometry: In the realm of flame photometry, where precise measurement of elements is required, combustion fuels like propane and butane, or a mixture of the two, are commonly employed. These fuels offer several desirable characteristics, including stability, controllability, and reproducibility. Flame photometers are equipped with a mixing chamber, where a vortex efficiently blends the fuel and air in a predetermined ratio before combustion takes place in the burner head. The stoichiometric ratio between butane and propane combustion profiles is crucial to achieving optimal results. It is important to note that butane burns at a lower temperature compared to propane. Temperature Differences between Propane and Butane: The variation in burning temperatures between propane and butane is a notable factor when choosing a combustion fuel for flame photometry. Propane burns hotter than butane due to differences in their molecular structures and combustion properties. The molecular structure of propane consists of three carbon atoms and eight hydrogen atoms (C3H8). This arrangement allows propane to achieve a higher combustion temperature, making it an excellent choice for applications where higher flame temperatures are required. On the other hand, butane possesses four carbon atoms and ten hydrogen atoms (C4H10). The additional carbon atoms in butane lead to a lower heat of combustion and result in a comparatively lower burning temperature. Application of Combustion in Flame Photometry: Flame photometry utilises the combustion process to analyse the concentration of various elements in a sample. By introducing the sample into the flame, the heat of combustion excites the atoms present in the sample, causing them to emit characteristic wavelengths of light. One key aspect in flame photometry is the temperature of the flame. Increasing the flame temperature leads to an increase in the quantity of emitted wavelengths. This occurs by altering the ratio of unexcited atoms to excited atoms, ultimately affecting the observed signal. In flame photometers such as the BWB-Tech flame photometer, a built-in compressor is located inside the instrument. This innovative feature simplifies the setup process, allowing users to conveniently connect a gas source to the instrument. The slogan "Just Add Gas" reflects the ease of use and accessibility provided by this design. Combustion, an exothermic chemical reaction, plays a vital role in flame photometry. By utilising combustion fuels like propane and butane, flame photometers are able to achieve precise and reliable measurements of elemental concentrations. Understanding the temperature differences between these fuels is essential in selecting the most suitable option for specific applications. Additionally, controlling the flame temperature in flame photometry can significantly impact the emitted wavelengths and, consequently, the accuracy of the analysis. With advancements in instrumentation, flame photometry has become more accessible and user-friendly, exemplified by the incorporation of compressors in modern flame photometers. As technology continues to evolve, flame photometry will remain a valuable analytical tool for elemental analysis in various scientific and industrial fields.

Flame photometers (FPs) have revolutionised the routine determination of ppm concentrations of key elements like barium, calcium, lithium, potassium, and sodium in solutions. With their calibrated settings and remarkable stability, FPs can maintain accuracy over extended periods, drifting as little as 1% per hour of operation. Traditionally, standard flame photometers achieved accuracies of 30 ppm for barium, 15 ppm for calcium, 0.25 ppm for lithium, and 0.2 ppm for both potassium and sodium. However, advancements in techniques and technologies, including electronic amplifiers, have pushed the boundaries further. In the past decade alone, FPs have achieved detection levels as low as 0.02 ppm for both potassium and sodium, improving accuracy by an entire order of magnitude. The applications of flame photometers are particularly invaluable in water analysis. They play a crucial role in determining the presence of sodium, potassium, and lithium. The versatility of flame photometers is remarkable. These devices can utilise various fuels, including propane, butane, natural gas, and even Liquid Propane Gas (LPG). FPs find extensive use beyond water analysis. Industries involved in food processing rely on them to monitor nutrient levels in their products, ensuring compliance with governmental standards and accurate labelling. While FPs may not directly test vitamin content, they assure manufacturers that their "low-salt" or "low-sodium" products such as soy sauce truly adheres to the packaging claims. Furthermore, FPs are indispensable in monitoring water quality. Municipal waterworks heavily rely on these devices to assess effluent being reintroduced into the environment and water retained for reuse within communities. The importance of accurate testing is highlighted by the potential for substantial fines and legal consequences for operators found in violation of specifications. Mining, including salt mines and potassium mines, benefits from flame photometry as well. It enables the determination of sodium, calcium, lithium, and potassium levels in rocks, metals, alloys, minerals, ores, and ceramics. Similarly, farming relies on FPs to understand soil conditions, plant constituents, and the quality of the available water supply. In the dairy industry, flame photometers quantify minerals present in milk. Moreover, FPs have found widespread use in the food and beverage industry, sugar industry, nuclear power stations, petrochemical cracking plants, and gas and oil fields. The introduction of the BWB XP version in 2013, capable of simultaneously testing all the familiar five elements, has significantly increased their adoption. This advancement has made the process and analysis easier and faster. The affordability and speed of testing ensure that flame photometry remains a leading technique for the foreseeable future. Additionally, the user-friendly nature of BWB FPs allows professionals to become proficient quickly, adding to the already numerous benefits. When you're ready to enhance your laboratory's capabilities or join other progressive industries embracing this technology, BWB is here to support you. Contact our experts, and they will guide you through the available options. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you elevate your business to new heights.

Flame photometry, a technique pioneered by Robert Bunsen and Peter Desaga in the 18th century, has stood the test of time as a valuable tool in scientific analysis. By producing a colourless flame and observing the colour emitted by heated substances, Bunsen and Desaga were able to create a unique spectrum for each substance. This early form of spectroscopy laid the foundation for further advancements in the field, which has since evolved into a sophisticated and powerful scientific discipline. While spectroscopy has made remarkable strides, it has also become increasingly expensive; particularly for routine laboratory testing that doesn't require its full capabilities. Enter the flame photometer—a cost-effective alternative with numerous applications in biology labs, industry, and wastewater treatment plants, to name a few. It excels in the rapid identification of Group I and Group II alkaline and alkaline earth metals such as sodium, potassium, lithium, barium, and calcium. The detection of these metals in blood can provide critical insights into nutritional deficiencies and medical conditions. In the food industry, flame photometry enables the quantification of nutrients, ensuring they align with label declarations, while in pharmacology; it serves as a valuable quality control measure. Compared to its more complex counterparts like gas chromatographs or spectroscopes, flame photometers boast significantly lower operational costs—often just a few pennies per test. Moreover, they offer impressive testing speed, limited only by the automation or the efficiency of the lab technician, potentially reaching up to 120 samples per hour. In contrast, a single sample analysed using gas chromatographs or spectroscopes could demand an hour of setup time, utilise numerous consumables, and be up to 120 times slower. When precision and a broad range of testable materials are paramount, sophisticated instruments have their place. However, for continuous process monitoring or swift medical results, flame photometry emerges as the clear winner. To embark on flame photometry, operators can easily acquire the necessary skills in just a single day of training. You'll need a Flame Photometer; the best are equipped with an internal air compressor for the most stable flame conditions. Additionally, access to compressed propane fuel (easily obtained and reasonably safe), proper placement for safe heat dissipation, and effective ventilation to eliminate combustion by-products are essential. Other consumables required include de-ionized (DI) water, control samples containing the desired test material for proper machine configuration, and sample containers. This process is cost-effective, providing consistent and reliable results, and boasts impressive throughput capabilities, making it a potentially profitable service to offer. In summary, if you seek an easy, economical, and efficient method to obtain precise results, flame photometry is the answer. If you're looking to add a low-cost, high-profit dimension to your laboratory, this technique may be a perfect fit. For more information or any inquiries, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We are eager to address your questions and assist you in getting started with flame photometry!

Faster, More Economical, & No Overkill If you're looking for a cost-effective way to measure metal ions in your lab, look no further than flame photometers. While some labs may have the budget for high-end equipment like gas chromatographs and mass spectrometers, many need to economize and stretch their research funds as far as they can go. Flame photometers provide a reliable, simple, fast, and efficient solution that doesn't require a high level of technical skill or a major investment of time or resources. Flame photometers are particularly sensitive to low values of Group I and Group II metals, including Sodium, Potassium, Calcium, Barium, and Lithium, which are important in biology, medical analysis, and chemistry. With minimal training, even a novice lab assistant can quickly learn to use a flame photometer effectively, making it an accessible solution for labs of all levels. One of the major benefits of flame photometers is their low cost. Consumables are minimal and limited to De-ionised water, calibration control solutions, sample cups and flame fuel. The latest models even come with built-in atmospheric air compressors. Conventional gases such as Methane, Propane and Butane can be used to achieve different temperatures depending on the substance being tested. Flame photometry is also well-suited to automation, with digital reporting and monitoring allowing for centralised data collection and real-time analysis. In a water treatment plant, for example, multiple flame photometers calibrated to different substances can be used to monitor influent and effluent water, as well as substances at various stages of treatment. This automation reduces the potential for human error and ensures that data is recorded accurately and consistently. In summary, flame photometers are reliable, simple, fast, efficient, economical, easy-to-maintain, and undemanding of high skill levels. They provide a cost-effective solution for labs looking to measure metal ions, and are particularly sensitive to low levels of Group I and Group II metals. With automation and digital reporting capabilities, flame photometry can be used for a wide range of applications in research and industry, making it a valuable tool for any lab looking to stretch its research budget.