When faced with the challenge of detecting radioactive elements, a leading research institute chose the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry developed by EXPEC Technology, an independently incubated subsidiary of FPI. Capable of analyzing over 70 elements across the periodic table—including radioactive elements—with fully open analytical ports for users, the instrument has become a key driving force behind the institute’s scientific breakthroughs.
At this research institute, the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) is used for the detection of radioactive elements in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) extracts. This instrument is capable of analyzing complex matrices such as fat emulsion injections, with the ability to screen high-risk elements including arsenic, cadmium, and lead at μg/L-level precision. With a precision level within 5%, it has become a “quality control benchmark” in heavy metal testing for pharmaceuticals.
The institute was previously equipped with an ICP-MS from another brand, but due to the instrument’s limited capabilities, the detection of radioactive elements in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) extracts was hindered, at one point bringing the research progress to a standstill. As a result, ensuring reliable performance became a top priority when selecting a new instrument. To this end, EXPEC Technology’s technical team laid a solid foundation of trust during the early stages of collaboration:
- Conducted face-to-face communication with the institute’s lead to fully understand their requirements
- Invited a team of experts from the institute to FPI’s Qingshanhu Innovation Base, where a batch of TCM extract samples underwent blind testing over a three-day technical validation process
- Held in-depth discussions on sample pretreatment procedures, detection method optimization, and the types of radionuclides that could be analyzed
In the end, the ICP-MS was successfully installed, accepted, and put into operation at the customer’s site. According to the institute’s feedback, the instrument delivers stable performance, a low failure rate, and prompt service response.
