UNICUBE trace

Matrix-independent determination of N and C at trace levels

Organic elemental analyzer

The UNICUBE trace is an organic elemental analyzer that measures low-level nitrogen and carbon concentrations in solids and highly viscous liquids with a detection limit of 10 mg/kg. It specializes in nitrogen and carbon determination using the Dumas method, which removes interfering gases during reduction detects the target gases using a thermal conductivity detector. This allows the UNICUBE trace is able to combine the benefits of the matrix-independent Dumas method with high sensitivity.

With the UNICUBE trace, sample digestion occurs through catalytic combustion at a temperature of 950 °C. During this process, nitrogen and carbon compounds in the sample form a mixture of oxides and N2. The resulting gases pass through a reduction tube, where carbon compounds are converted to CO2 and nitrogen compounds to N2. After removing other combustion products like H2O and SO2, CO2 and N2 are measured using thermal conductivity detection.

The system offers easy, low-maintenance operation. Its matrix-independent analysis enables the use of a standard ‘universal’ calibration for any sample type. The front door of the analyser opens to provide excellent access for replacing consumables. Exchanging the combustion and reduction tube is simple thanks to the slide-out furnace.

Specifications of the organic elemental analyzer:

High-temperature combustion:
UNICUBE trace offers quantitative sample digestion up to 1,200 °C, backed by a 10-year furnace warranty. It ensures complete conversion of all N components into N2. The system uses jet injection of oxygen directly to the sample, achieving high oxygen concentrations at the combustion point, while minimizing gas consumption.

Largest weighing range:
The weighing range covers both micro (less than 1 mg) and macro (around 1 g of soil) applications, depending on the requirements, and can be used to analyse up to 20 mg of organic matter.

Largest dynamic range of element concentrations and element ratio:
UNICUBE trace supports element concentrations and ratios up to 50 mg C abs. or 10 mg N abs. or 100%, depending on the analysis mode and sample matrix. The system offers a detection limit of 10 ppm for both N and C.

Multipoint calibration
Offering matrix-independent stability for months at a time.

PC-based instrumentation control
The instrument’s full digitalization enables remote operation from a standard PC, ensuring perfect results, even with unknown or highly variable sample matrices. It also features an integrated standard sample feeder that can hold 120 samples, with 21 CFR part 11 functionality available.

One simple instrument for all applications
UNICUBE trace eliminates the need for expensive special catalysts, making ash removal from the combustion tube simple, and providing durable components that contribute to a low cost of ownership.

Clean, safe and fast
Each analysis takes just a few minutes and uses helium as the carrier gas, without requiring aggressive or toxic chemicals.

Easy installation requirements
UNICUBE trace requires only 48 x 55 cm of benchtop space and runs on a single power supply (230, 110 or 100 V) and two gases, offering long periods of maintenance-free operation.