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2.4. Checking for warnings and checking the probe is clean
When you have connected to the powered-on IRmadillo the KeitSpec application should load
automatically. It is important to confirm that the system is working without errors: information
on IRmadillo warnings and errors can be found in DOC0893 KeitSpec Software User Manual
section 1 Getting Started.
Once the system is set up without errors the probe tip must be cleaned, and a background
spectrum must be taken before insertion into the vessel or pipe. If the probe is guaranteed
clean the factory background scan shipped with the instrument
– and saved to the desktop of
the controller - can be used. Cleanliness of the probe tip is important to performance; if you
suspect fouling or scale build-up, perform a clean appropriate to your environment.
2.4.1. Cleaning instructions
Rinse the ATR element with a suitable solvent. The choice of solvent will depend on your
process. You may fully immerse the ATR in solvent if needed. The following are suitable:
•
Water
•
Acetone
•
Alcohols
•
Surfactant solutions
•
Alkanes (hexane, cyclohexan
e etc…)
•
Ethers
Once exposed to a suitable solvent wipe the ATR with a clean cloth. The metal tube of the
probe can also be cleaned by wiping with a cloth.
For hard-to-remove fouling (such as biofilms or dried-on chemicals) Keit recommends an
oxidative acid clean. First clean the ATR using the methods outlined above, then perform the
following:
•
Place the PTFE sample cell on the end of the probe and fill with ~4ml of 1 M nitric acid
solution
•
Leave to soak for 1 hr
•
Carefully remove the acid using a pipette and fill the sample cell with water
•
Remove the water using a pipette
•
Remove the sample cell and rinse the ATR again with water
•
Carefully wipe the ATR with a cloth
It may be necessary to repeat the cleaning steps again if the contaminant has only been
partially removed.
In some cases, it may be necessary to perform an alkali clean on the probe. First clean the
ATR using the methods outline above, then perform the following:
•
Place the PTFE sample cell on the end of the probe and fill with ~4ml of 1 M sodium
hydroxide solution
•
Leave to soak for 1 hr
•
Carefully remove the alkali using a pipette and fill the sample cell with water
•
Remove the water using a pipette
•
Remove the sample cell and rinse the ATR again with water
•
Carefully wipe the ATR with a cloth
