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AA spectrometer FAQ Guide: Everything you need to know before buying

2025-03-21
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Why Does Every Laboratory Owner Need This AA Spectrometer FAQ Guide?

Choosing the right fairground equipment is crucial for laboratory technicians, quality inspectors and researchers. You must ensure precision, fast and profession . But with so many options: AAS, FAAS, GFAAS, HG AAS, CV AAS, how do you decide the best suitable for your research?

Our aa spectrometer FAQ Guide answers key questions to help you make informed decisions before purchasing.

This guide is designed to help laboratory technicians, quality inspectors and researchers make well-informed choices when buying atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Understanding these essential factors allows you to select aas machine that improve high performance while ensuring easy operation and analytical results satisfaction.

Avoid costly mistakes-read our atomic absorption spectrometer FAQ Guide now and take the first step toward profession!


 
AA Spectrometer FAQ Guide Table
►   What Is An Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer?
►   How Does Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Work?
►   Application Of Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer?
►   Components Of Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer?
►   Types Of AA Spectrophotometer.
►   What Concentrations Can AA Spectrometer Measure?
►   What Are PPM And PPB In An Atomic Absorption Spectrometer?

►   Schematic Diagram Of Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer?
►   Advantages And Disadvantages Of Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy.
►   Atomic Spectroscopy Vs Molecular Spectroscopy.
►   Difference Between Flame Atomic Method And Graphite Method.
►   Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Vs Atomic Emission Spectroscopy.
 ►   Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Vs ICP.
►   Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Vs ICP-OES.
►   Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Vs Uv Vis.
►   Flame Photometer Vs Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer.
►   What Is Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Used For?
►   What Metals Can Be Detected Using AA Spectrometer?
►   What Is The Principle Of Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy?
►   Why Is Source Modulation Used In Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy?
►   How Does Flame AA Spectroscopy Work?
►   How To Use Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy?
►   Who Invented Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy?
►   Why Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Is Limited To Metals Only?
►   How To Prepare Sample For Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy?
►   How Much Does An Atomic Absorption Spectrometer Cost?
►   How To Calibrate Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer?
►   3 Common Uses For Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer.
►   Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer Maintenance.
►   What Precautions Should Be Taken When Using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy?
►   What Is Background Correction In Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy?
►   What Is Combustion Gold Amalgamation Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy?
►   What Light Source Is Used In Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy?
►   Why Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Not Used For Qualitative?
►   Why Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Used For Metal Quantitatively Only?
►   Why Does Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Need High Temperatures?
►   Is Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Destructive?
►   How To Buy a Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy From China?
►   How Does a Manufacturer Deliver The Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy?
►   Is There Any Warranty On Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy?
►   What After-Sale Service Does a Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Provide?
►   Can You Do OEM&ODM For Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy?
►   Where To Find Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Manufacturers?
►   How To Choose a Right Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy System For Your Lab Application?
►   What Should You Look For In a Perfect Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy?





What Is An Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer?

Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer Definition

Also known as AAS, Atomic Absorption Spectrometer, detects the concentration of an element in a liquid or solid sample by the wavelength of electromagnetic radiation from a light source. Different elements absorb different wavelengths and aim to analyze metallic elements in a sample by atomic absorption spectrometry.




How Does Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Work?

Emission of a characteristic light source of the element to be measured using a hollow cathode lamp.

The element is converted to ground state atoms by a flame atomizer or graphite furnace atomizer at high temperatures.

The ground state atoms absorb light at specific wavelengths (characteristic spectral lines) and the absorbance is proportional to the concentration (Beer-Lambert law).

The concentration of the element is quantitatively analyzed according to a standard curve.




Application Of Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer.







Components Of Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer?

Light source Hollow cathode lamp (Emits sharp line spectrum)
Atomizer
Flame Atomizer Acetylene-air/nitrous oxide, suitable for rapid detection.
Graphite furnace atomizer High sensitivity, low detection limit.
Others Hydride generator (As, Se), cold vapor (Hg).
Optical splitting system Monochromator (grating, slit) to separate characteristic wavelengths.
Detection system Photoelectric detector, converting optical signals into electrical signals.
Data processing system Computer software to analyze and store data.





Types Of AA Spectrophotometer.

Incident beam: single-beam aas spectrometer and double-beam aas spectrometer.

Atomization methods: Flame atomic absorption spectroscopy(FAAS), Graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy(GF AAS), Hydride generation atomic absorption spectroscopy(HG AAS), Cold vapor atomic absorption spectroscopy(CV AAS).

Background deduction method: deuterium lamp deduction background atomic absorption spectrometer and Zeeman deduction background atomic absorption spectrometer.




What Concentrations Can AA Spectrometer Measure?

GFAAS: ppb (μg/L). FAAS: ppm (mg/L).




What Are PPM And PPB In An Atomic Absorption Spectrometer?

PPM PPB
Parts Per Million
1 ppm = 1,000 ppb
1 ppm ≈ 1 mg/kg or 1 mg/(Liquid/solid)
1 ppm = 1 μL/L or 1 cm³/m³(Gas)
Parts Per Billion
1 ppb = 0.001 ppm
1 ppb ≈ 1 μg/kg or 1 μg/L(Liquid/solid)
1 nL/L or 1 mm³/m³(Gas)




Schematic Diagram Of Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer?






Advantages And Disadvantages Of Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy.

Advantages Disadvantages
Fast analysis speed
Low cost
Low detection limit and high sensitivity:
GFAAS: ppb (μg/L).
FAAS: ppm (mg/L).
Versatility: liquids, solids and even gases
Wide range of applications
The sample must be in liquid form.
Multiple elements cannot be analyzed simultaneously.
Non-metallic elements cannot be determined.
Not as good as ICP-OES/ICP-OEM for analyzing samples
with very low elemental concentrations.





Atomic Spectroscopy Vs Molecular Spectroscopy.

Atomic spectroscopy refers to the study of electromagnetic radiation absorbed and emitted by atoms, such as AAS, AES, ICP-OEM.
Molecular spectroscopy refers to the study of electromagnetic radiation absorbed and emitted by molecules, such UV-VIS, IR, FS.




Difference Between Flame Atomic Method And Graphite Method.

The atomization efficiency of the graphite furnace is close to 100 percent, whereas the atomization efficiency of the flame method is only about 1 percent.

When atomization is carried out with graphite furnace, the residence time of atomic vapors in the optical path is longer (seconds).

The graphite furnace is more suitable for trace and ultra-trace analysis in ppb, while the flame method is suitable for high concentration analysis in ppm.




Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Vs Atomic Emission Spectroscopy.

Atomic absorption: Ground state to excited state, absorbs electromagnetic radiation, requires a light source such as a hollow cathode lamp, cannot analyze solid samples directly.

Atomic emission: Excited state to ground state, emits electromagnetic radiation, does not require a light source, relies on an excitation source

From ground state to excited state From excited state to ground state, solid samples can be analyzed directly.


Difference Between Atomic Fluorescence And Atomic Absorption.

AFS equipment: Measurement of the fluorescence intensity of the excited emission of atoms, suitable for volatile elements (Hg, As, Se, etc.) ppb level detection.

AAS equipment: Measurement of light intensity absorbed by atomic vapor, suitable for ppm-ppb level routine analysis of a wide range of metal elements.




Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Vs ICP.

AAS machine: Base state atoms absorb light at specific wavelengths, and individual elements are analyzed sequentially in trace quantities.

ICP machine: High-temperature plasma excitation of atoms/ions, simultaneous high-throughput analysis of multiple elements.




Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Vs ICP-OES.

AAS instrument: Base state atoms absorb light at specific wavelengths, and individual elements are analyzed sequentially in trace quantities. Flame or graphite furnace (2000-3000°C)

ICP-OES: High temperature plasma excitation of atoms/ions, simultaneous analysis of multiple elements. Inductively coupled plasma (6000-10000°C). Complex sample matrix.




Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Vs Uv Vis.

AAS Atomic Absorption: The transition of electrons in the orbitals of the elements (atoms) that make up a substance. High sensitivity. Analysis of metallic elements at the atomic level.

UV-Vis: The molecular composition of the substance in the molecular orbitals of the electrons in the leap, belonging to the molecular absorption. Low sensitivity. Determination of compound concentration at the molecular level.




Flame Photometer Vs Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer.

AAS instrumenation: Quantitative analysis of various metal elements based on absorption spectra.

FP: Based on the emission spectrum of the alkali metals (Na, K, Ca, Li, Ba) analysis.




What Is Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Used For?

Functions of aa spectroscopy

AA spectroscopy is used to measure the amount of certain metallic elements in a sample.




What Metals Can Be Detected Using AA Spectrometer?

FAAS Na,K,Mg,Ca,Cr,Mn,Fe,Co,Ni,Pt,Au,Cu,Ag,Zn,Cd,Pb,Bi
GFAAS Ag,AI,As,Au,Ba,Be,Bi,Ca,Cd,Ce,Co,Cs,Cu,Dy,Er,Eu,Fe,Ga,Ho,In,K,La,Li,Mg,Mn,Mo,Na,Ni,Pt,Os,Pb,Pd,Pr,Hf,Rb,Ph,Ru,Sb,Sc,Se,Sm,Sn,Zr,Te,Ti,V,Zn,si
HG AAS As,Se,Sb,Bi,Pb,Sn,Te,Ge,Hg
CV AAS Hg




What Is The Principle Of Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy?

The working principle of atomic absorbance spectrometer is based on atomic absorption spectrometry, in which the concentration of an element is quantitatively analyzed by atomizing a sample and placing it in a quartz tube, and by measuring the absorption of radiation from a light source at characteristic wavelengths by atoms in the ground state. Each element has a unique electronic energy level structure and can only absorb light at specific wavelengths (characteristic spectral lines).




Why Is Source Modulation Used In Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy?

Source modulation in aas spectrophotometer improves the precision of analytical results by distinguishing between the absorption signals of the atoms in the sample and the background noise.





How Does Flame AA Spectroscopy Work?

The light source emits characteristic spectral lines → the sample is atomized to form ground state atomic vapors → the ground state atoms absorb light at a specific wavelength → the spectroscopic system screens the target wavelength → the detector measures the change in light intensity → the data system calculates the concentration.




How To Use Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy?

Instrument check
Check if the instrument power supply is normal and make sure that the gas supply pressure is within the specified range. Check whether the burner and atomizer are clean.

Reagent preparation
Prepare standard and sample solutions to ensure that their concentration and purity meet the experimental requirements. Prepare the blank solution for correcting the background absorption of the instrument.

Power on
Power on the instrument, warm up the instrument to ensure that the light source is stable.
Parameter setting: lamp selection and wavelength setting.
Blank correction: blank solution determination

Standard curve plotting
Standard Solution Determination:Determine different concentrations of standard solutions sequentially and record the absorbance values.
Standard curve plotting: use the software to plot the standard curve and calculate the regression equation.

Sample Determination
Measurement of sample solution: Put the sample solution into the sample chamber and measure the absorbance.
Concentration Calculation:Calculate the concentration of the element to be measured in the sample according to the standard curve.

Shutdown
Burner and atomizer off
Power off




Who Invented Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy?

The founder of the core theory and technique of atomic absorbance spectroscopy (AAS) was the Australian scientist Alan Walsh (1916-1998). He developed the basic principles of AAS machine in the 1950s and promoted the practical application of the technique.
Walsh's contributions made AAS machine the “gold standard” for trace element analysis, which still plays an important role in environmental monitoring, food safety, clinical testing and other fields.




Why Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Is Limited To Metals Only?

AAS spectroscopy is based on the absorption of specific wavelengths of light by atoms in the ground state, and the atomized properties of metallic elements are more in line with this principle.

The absorption lines of metallic elements are mostly located in the UV-visible region (200-900 nm), which matches the detection range of AAS instruments.

Compounds of metallic elements are easily decomposed into atomic vapors at high temperatures.

Metal elements have low ionization energies and exist mainly as neutral atoms in a flame or graphite furnace.




How To Prepare Sample For Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy?

Solid samples Liquid samples Gas samples
With wet digestion or microwave digestion, the
sample is added with acid, heated and filtered for spare.
Direct dilution and filtration or add concentrated nitric
acid digestion and cooling spare.
Direct injection method or particle trapping-dissolution method.




How Much Does An Atomic Absorption Spectrometer Cost?

AA spectrometer price

It wouldn't be right to mention one fixed amount.

The aa spectrophotometer price will vary from model to model.

To know the exact price, you can ask your preferred manufacturer to provide a quotation for the type of atomic absorption spectroscopy instrumentation you want.




How To Calibrate Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer?

Baseline correction Baseline zeroing: feed the sample with blank solution, adjust the instrument to zero the absorbance (A=0), eliminate the background signal.
Wavelength correction Manually or automatically scan the emission spectrum of the light source to find the maximum absorption wavelength. Calibrate the deviation by adjusting the grating or software parameters.
Standard curve method calibration Prepare the standard solution, measure the absorbance, plot the standard curve and verify the linear range.
Background correction Deuterium lamp background correction: Turn on the deuterium lamp correction mode, measure the total absorption and background absorption. The instrument automatically deducts the background signal to obtain the net atomic absorption value.



3 Common Uses For Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer.

Environmental monitoring: Analyze lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As) and other harmful elements in water bodies. As well as soil/atmospheric particulate soil content of copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), chromium (Cr) and other elements.

Food safety and quality testing: Analyzing calcium (Ca) and iron (Fe) in milk, and zinc (Zn) in grains. Methylmercury (Hg) in seafood, inorganic arsenic (As) in rice, and lead (Pb) dissolved in packaging materials.

Biomedical and Clinical Diagnostics: Analyze blood/urine for lead (Pb) exposure, abnormal copper (Cu) metabolism. Monitoring of platinum (Pt) levels in therapeutic drugs or essential elements (magnesium, selenium).





Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer Maintenance.

Sampling System Cleaning
Clean and wipe the atomizer/combustion head regularly to avoid clogging the capillary or combustion slit with sample residue. Empty the waste liquid drum promptly.

Light source maintenance
Regularly check the energy intensity of the hollow cathode lamp. Gently wipe the light window/lens with anhydrous ethanol and mirror paper every month. Regularly calibrate the wavelength accuracy of the monochromator annually by a professional.

Gas Line Management
Check whether the pressure of acetylene/air/nitrous oxide is stable and the pipeline is not leaking; acetylene cylinders need to be placed vertically and away from fire source. Replace the gas filter regularly.

Cooling system
Graphite furnace cooling water: Replace deionized water regularly to prevent scale from blocking the circulating pipeline;




What Precautions Should Be Taken When Using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy?

1. Acetylene, nitrous gas away from sources of ignition, close the cylinder valves after use, gas cylinders placed in a fixed position, and often check whether the acetylene cylinder connected to the pressure-reducing valve is strong without leakage.

2. The discharge of waste liquid should be handled in a timely and safe manner to avoid contamination.

3. Prohibit electrified plugging and unplugging data cables.

4. Avoid directly observing the flame or furnace in the process of atomization.

5. Operators wear appropriate protective gear.




What Is Background Correction In Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy?

Background correction in is used to eliminate the effect of background interference in the sample on the measurement results, so as to obtain an accurate atomic absorption signal. Background interference are mainly caused by light scattering, molecular absorption, complex matrices, etc. and can lead to high absorbance values.

Background correction has deuterium lamp background correction (D₂ Lamp Correction) and Zeeman Effect Correction.




What Is Combustion Gold Amalgamation Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy?

Combustion gold amalgamation is a special sample pretreatment technique for the determination of mercury (Hg), which is mainly used to improve the sensitivity, selectivity and immunity to interference in the detection of trace mercury. Highly efficient atomization and detection is achieved by the formation of stable gold amalgam (Au-Hg amalgam) from gold (Au) and mercury(Hg) at room temperature, and the release of mercury vapor by combustion at high temperatures.




What Light Source Is Used In Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy?

The Hollow Cathode Lamp (HCL) is the most commonly used light source. The emission spectrum is narrow and sensitive for most metallic elements. It is the standard light source for flame aa spectrometer and graphite atomic absorption spectroscopy.




Why Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Not Used For Qualitative?

Qualitative analysis using atomic absorption spectrometry is difficult because it can only set a specific wavelength for the known element to be measured and cannot scan the element in full spectrum. Multiple elements cannot be measured at the same time, and there are potential interference and different sensitivities for different elements.

Techniques such as Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (AES) X-ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy (XRF), and Inductively Coupled Plasma

Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) can detect multiple elements at the same time and are more suitable for qualitative analysis.




Why Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Used For Metal Quantitatively Only?

Metallic elements are prone to form ground state atoms in a flame or graphite furnace, resulting in a characteristic absorption signal. The characteristic absorption lines are mostly located in the UV-visible region (200-900 nm), which matches the detection range of AAS instruments.

Non-metallic elements are difficult to generate stable ground state atoms during atomization at high temperatures, and the characteristic absorption signals cannot be detected.





Why Does Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Need High Temperatures?

Atomic Absorption Spectrometry requires the atomization of compounds or molecules in the sample (free atoms in the ground state) by heating at high temperatures, which is the most critical step in its analytical process.

Incomplete atomization at low temperatures results in low detection sensitivity and generates background noise that interferes with absorbance measurements.



Is Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Destructive?

Aatomic absorption spectroscopy analysis is inherently destructive technology, as the sample must be converted to free atoms by high temperature or physico-chemical treatment. Since only a single element can be analyzed at a time, this means that multi-element analyses consume larger sample volumes and are not reusable.




How To Buy a Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy From China?

Importing AA atomic absorption spectroscopy machine from China can be difficult for those who are new to international imports.

Purchasing from a reputable manufacturer and supplier eliminates hassle of logistics, as they handle the safe and reliable delivery of the product directly to your place.

When buying the atomic absorption spectrophotometers, it is important to keep the following points in mind:
1. Confirm that your selected supplier can securely export and deliver the machine, and ensure that your agreement includes all essential shipping information.

2. Choose the delivery way (by sea, air, or express) based on your preference.

3. Remember to factor in duty imports and taxes when calculating the total cost.





How Does a Manufacturer Deliver The Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy?

AAS spectrometers delivery

Safe shipping is so important as quality manufacturing.

A responsible manufacturer should deliver your atomic absorption spectrophotometry safely.

Most atomic absorption spectrophotometer manufacturers use export wooden case to pack the device.

You should read all the necessary instructions available on the sides of the boxes before boxing.





Is There Any Warranty On Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy?

AAS machine warranty

For optimal performance, it is important to regularly maintain your aas atomic absorption spectrophotometer, so it can operate efficiently for an extended period. It is essential to be aware of the warranty coverage for your equipment, as it ensures that any manufacturing issues will be repaired at no additional cost by the supplier. Therefore, it is recommended to purchase a absorption spectrophotometer from a manufacturer that offers warranty services —Cialan. 

Reputable amusement manufacturers typically provide a 1-year warranty.  for example, offers complimentary repair and maintenance services during the first year. 

Before purchasing a atomic absorption instrument, it is advisable to review the warranty period and other associated terms and conditions.




What After-Sale Service Does a Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Provide?

The reliable atomic absorption spectrophotometer suppliers offers the following after-sale services:

1. Secure product delivery.

2. Thorough inspection prior to installation.

3. Complimentary online guidance for device installation and maintenance.

4. Free training for your users.

5. Regular assessments of your AAS equipment.




Can You Do OEM&ODM For Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy?

Yes, Cialan can do OEM#OEM for our users, just send us your requirements for AAS analysis.




Where To Find Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Manufacturers?

Numerous online directories can connect you with atomic absorption machine manufacturers. 

A simple search for "top-rated AA spectrometer manufacturers" yields multiple options. However, it's essential to exercise caution when selecting a manufacturer from online search results. Before making a decision, conduct thorough research on the company's background and reputation. Look up reviews on “Google” and reputable review sites to gauge their credibility. 

Additionally, It's also crucial to review their portfolio of request that potential manufacturers share examples of their previous work to ensure they meet your standards.





How To Choose a Right Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy System For Your Lab Application?

What is the sample to be measured and what industry does it belong to?

Elemental species: conventional metallic elements are analyzed using AAS. non-metallic elements (As, Se, Hg) need to be analyzed with a hydride generator or cold vapor technique.

Elemental concentration range: ppm: flame AAS. ppb: graphite furnace AAS.

Background calibration: Deuterium lamp calibration for routine testing, Zeeman calibration for complex substrates.

Budgeted cost: Select the appropriate instrument configuration based on your budget, e.g. flame atomic absorption spectrometer, graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometer, Zeeman calibration, autosampler, hydride generator, etc.





What Should You Look For In a Perfect Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy?

AA spectrometer has flexible atomization mode (flame/graphite furnace), high stability light source stabilization, high sensitivity, accurate background correction, fast analysis speed, low energy consumption, cost-effective.


 
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