WHAT IT IS
The burner head is the part of the AAS instrument that distributes the fuel and oxidant mixture to create a controlled flame. This flame serves as the environment for atomizing the sample, enabling the free atoms to absorb light from the source lamp. The material of the burner head must withstand high temperatures and resist chemical corrosion to maintain flame quality and instrument performance.
IMPACT ON PERFORMANCE
Flame Stability: The burner head material must provide consistent heat distribution and support uniform flame generation to ensure stable atomization.
Chemical Compatibility: The material should resist corrosion from acidic, basic, or high-salt samples, maintaining its integrity over prolonged use.
Durability: High-quality materials withstand repeated exposure to high temperatures and aggressive chemicals, reducing wear and maintenance needs.
Precision: A well-designed burner head with the right material ensures optimal sample introduction and atomization, improving analytical accuracy.
COMMON BURNER HEAD MATERIALS IN AAS
Stainless Steel: Durable and corrosion-resistant, suitable for most routine applications. Handles aqueous and mildly acidic or basic samples effectively. Affordable and widely used for general-purpose flame AAS.
Titanium: Offers superior corrosion resistance, particularly for samples with high acid or salt content. Suitable for applications involving aggressive chemical environments. More expensive than stainless steel but ideal for specialized analyses.
Nickel-Chrome Alloys: High resistance to both high temperatures and corrosive environments. Commonly used for demanding applications, such as industrial or environmental analyses. Durable but less common than stainless steel or titanium.