The MARS 2 is a microwave acid digestion system to produce aqueous solutions for elemental analysis by ICP, ICP-MS, or AA. It efficiently digests a wide range of sample types, including plants, soil, foods, and pharmaceuticals, using preloaded methods. For over 30 years, lab technicians have trusted MARS systems for sample preparation. With the latest updates, the MARS 2 makes the process even simpler and more efficient.
Features:
- Industry best 316 stainless steel cavity construction.
- Multi-layer Teflon® coating applied in proprietary process for superior corrosion resistance.
- Non-metallic high impact polymer casing.
- High-capacity integrated exhaust system to remove fumes and assist in cooling vessels.
One Touch Technology
Preinstalled methods are one touch away.
By selecting the One Touch® icon on the MARS 2 touchscreen, you can easily choose the sample type from the preinstalled methods. Each method includes the recommended sample size, acid type, and acid volume. The system automatically detects the type of vessel you are using, counts the vessels, adjust the power accordingly, and performs the digestion for you. It couldn’t be easier!
Advanced Sensors
Better control means better results.
The MARS 2 uses a series of integrated contactless sensors for accurate power delivery and temperature measurement. Floor-mounted sensors count the number of vessels being processed to determine the correct power at start up. When only preparing a few samples, the system reduces initial power, while larger batches receive increased power. This control is unique to the CEM MARS family and provides the finest control available. A second sensor identifies the selected vessel to confirm its suitability for your sample type. Finally, the iWave temperature sensor provides the most accurate contactless temperature control available. This combination gives you the unmatched performance of a MARS system.
MARSXpress Vessels
The most popular vessel in the world.
MARSXpress and MARSXpress Plus vessels are easy to use three-piece vessels that assemble in seconds, yet are rugged enough for most sample types. Patented in 2003, MARSXpress vessels with vent and reseal technology have set the industry standard ever since. These vessels simultaneously run mixed sample types such as foods, tissues, and cannabis in a single batch, significantly boosting productivity in labs with diverse sample materials. The 55 mL and 75 mL MARSXpress, aling with the 110 mL MARSXpress Plus, are compatible with the MARS 2.
Vessel Inserts
You have several options!
MARS 2, equipped with iWave® temperature sensing technology, revolutionizes microwave digestion with the introduction of disposable vessel inserts. These inserts simplify the process, minimizing or even eliminating the need for vessel cleaning.
Choosing the appropriate insert depends on the digestion temperature and the required blank values, based on the limit of quantification for a particular analysis. For trace metals analysis, it is crucial to consider materials that come into contact with the sample to avoid contamination. In general, Teflon® and quartz are generally regarded as analytically clean and suitable for most applications. In contrast, glass, due to its composition, contains higher levels of certain impurities, which may render it unsuitable for some uses.
Vessel Type | Glass | Quartz | Teflon |
MARSXpress 55 mL | ✔ | ||
MARSXpress 75 mL | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
MARSXpress Plus | ✔ |
Glass and Quartz Inserts
Glass and quartz inserts streamline workflows for high-throughput labs. Simply weigh the sample into the insert, add the acid mixture, and load the insert into a MARSXpress or MARSXpress Plus vessel. Place the vessel in the MARS 2 for digestion. The digested sample is removed from the vessel then diluted directly in the insert. Once digestion is complete, remove the insert and dilute the sample directly within it, eliminating errors and contamination risks from multiple transfer steps. After analysis, simply throw the insert away.
Teflon Inserts
The Teflon insert prevents batch-to-batch contamination, eliminating the need to wash vessels between runs. Simply form a disposable insert and place it into the MARSXpress vessel, cap it, and start the run. After digestion is complete, transfer your solution to an appropriate flask or vial and dispose of the insert. You are ready to start your next sample. These inserts are suitable for any digestion application run at or below 180°C for 30 minutes or less.
Insert Material | Max Temp for up to 18 vessels |
Max Temp for up to 24 samples |
Glass | 210 °C | 200 °C |
Quartz | 210 °C | 200 °C |
Teflon | 180 °C | 180 °C |