Determine the Sample Mass
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Bulb sample tubes are for pellets and other samples without loose particles. Using powder samples in bulb tubes may cause the loose particles to go into the analyzer's exhaust. |
- Record the Sample Tube Identification on the Sample Data Worksheet.
- Place the sample weighing support on the balance. Tare the balance and allow it to stabilize at zero.
- If analyzing a powder or sample made of fine particles, push a piece of quartz wool all the way down into the sample tube. See Use Quartz Filter Discs for Chemical Adsorption.
- If using quartz wool, put a second piece of quartz wool just inside the sample tube. If using filter discs, push a filter disc down into the tube until it sits on top of the quartz wool. Place a second filter disc just inside the sample tube.
- Place the sample tube set (sample tube with quartz wool or filter discs and stoppers) on the sample support. Record the stabilized mass on the Sample Data Worksheet.
- Remove the sample weighing support and sample tube set from the balance.
- Place the sample container on the balance and allow the balance to stabilize at zero.
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Do not touch the sample with bare hands. Oil from hands could affect the accuracy of results. |
- Slowly add approximately 0.5 to 1.0 gram of sample to the sample container.
- If a second piece of quartz wool or filter disc was inserted, remove the top portion of the quartz wool or the filter disc from the sample tube.
- Use a funnel to slowly pour sample from the container into the sample tube on top of the quartz wool in the tube.
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Ensure all sample in the container is placed in the sample tube to avoid errors caused by incorrect sample mass. |
- If using quartz wool, insert the top portion of quartz wool into the tube and press it down. If using filter discs, insert the filter disc into the tube and press it down.
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Ensure the disc is flat on top of the sample. A seal must be created around the edge to prevent the sample from escaping. |
- Wipe the top of the sample tube with a lint-free cloth, such as a Kimwipe®, to remove any quartz wool that may have adhered to the surface.
- Weigh the sample tube set containing the sample and the stoppers. Record this mass as the Sample + tube.