Method and apparatus for automated analysis and characterization of chemical constituents of process solutions

Abstract

A method of directed automated analysis of a plurality of analytes of a process solution includes providing a sample of the process solution containing a plurality of the analytes, admixing an enriched isotope spike for each of the plurality of analytes to be analyzed with the process solution sample thereby effecting admixture of the enriched ratio of isotopes with the naturally occurring ratio of each analyte to be analyzed, creating ions from the spikes, introducing the ions into a mass spectrometer for determination of the identity and quantity of each analyte and delivering the information to a microprocessor. If desired, the process solution sample may be diluted and/or subjected to the addition of reagents or standards prior to initiation of the analysis. The ions may be created by an atmospheric pressure ionization interface. The information obtained is processed in a computer which serves to control other portions of the practice of the method. Such controls may include delivery of analytes to the process solution based on the information obtained, control of the sample extraction, sample handling, ionizer, and mass spectrometer. The information may also be employed to control delivery of analytes in the process solution. In another embodiment, enriched isotopic ions are introduced into the process solution. Corresponding apparatus is provided.