Łukasiewicz – Górnośląski Instytut Technologiczny is expanding its research infrastructure in the field of advanced chemical analysis. As part of an ongoing project, the laboratory has been equipped with a modern microwave digestion system, which is a key component in sample preparation for the precise analysis of trace and ultra-trace elements. The new device significantly enhances the Institute’s research capabilities and supports projects for the aerospace, automotive, energy, and medical industries.
Upgrading the Research Facility at Łukasiewicz – Górnośląski Instytut Technologiczny
At Łukasiewicz – Górnośląski Instytut Technologiczny, we are continuously developing our research infrastructure in the field of advanced chemical analytics. As part of the project titled “Establishment of a research facility for the analysis of trace contaminants in innovative materials used in the aerospace, automotive, and energy industries”, the trace and ultra-trace element analysis station has been equipped with a Speedwave Xpert microwave digestion system by Berghof.
The new device works in combination with an ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry) system, enabling highly precise elemental analysis of materials used in the aerospace, automotive, energy, and medical industries.
Advanced Sample Preparation
The high-pressure microwave digestion system is a key component of the laboratory equipment used for advanced sample preparation prior to chemical analysis. Microwave digestion enables rapid, controlled, and reproducible decomposition of materials using acid mixtures in closed reaction vessels.
The application of elevated pressure and temperature allows for the effective digestion of samples that are difficult to dissolve using conventional methods, including:
- metallic materials and alloys
- industrial powders
- environmental samples
- mineral raw materials
- polymeric materials and biomaterials
- industrial-origin samples
The resulting solutions can subsequently be used for elemental analysis using techniques such as ICP-OES, ICP-MS, and AAS.
Higher Analytical Quality and Efficiency
Microwave digestion ensures full control over process conditions, reduces analyte losses, and minimizes the risk of sample contamination. It also enables simultaneous preparation of multiple samples, significantly improving reproducibility and laboratory efficiency.
This technique is applied both in research and development activities, as well as in routine quality control and materials, environmental, and industrial testing. It is particularly valuable whenever a representative sample solution is required for precise determination of trace, major, and alloying elements.
Project Value
Project value: PLN 1,881,862.50
EU co-funding: PLN 1,446,020.63
The implementation of this investment contributes to the further development of the Institute’s research potential and strengthens its position as a modern, unique European analytical center, supporting quality monitoring of production processes across key industrial sectors.
