SOP FOR MICROWAVE DIGESTER

1.0 PURPOSE

The purpose of this document is to carry out the operation of a microwave digester.

2.0 SCOPE

This procedure is applicable to the microwave digester used in the laboratory.

3.0 RESPONSIBILITY

Chemists/analysts are responsible for following this procedure. The section In-charge QC/ Quality Manager is responsible for implementing this procedure.

4.0 INSTRUMENTS DETAILS

Name of Instrument: MICROWAVE DIGESTER

Make: Manufacturer Name

Instrument Identification No. : Lab internal assign No:

4.1 Operation

4.1.1. Weigh the required quantity of sample in the Teflon tube and add acids as per required.

4.1.2. Allow the sample to pre-digest by keeping the Teflon tubes along with standing in a serological temperature control water bath for 30-45 min in a fume hood. Calculate the time when the temperature of the water bath reaches 70-80⁰C.

4.1.3. Check whether pre-digestion is complete or not. After complete Pre digestion takes out the stand along with the tubes and keeps it in a fume hood for 5-10 min.

4.1.4. Cap the tubes. Precautions are to be taken that the tube should not be too tight nor too loose and tighten the finger tight.

4.1.5. Check the electrical connections are proper.

4.1.6. Switch ON the main supply.

4.1.7. Switch ON the button on the right side of the MARS Xpress digester.

4.1.8. Insert the tubes into the receptacles of the turntable as per the CEM microwave-enhanced science catalog.

4.1.9. Click on ONE TOUCH METHOD/ CLASSIC METHOD on the home page.

4.1.10. Click on method.

4.1.11. Click on the START button.

4.1.12. After digestion is complete switch OFF the button on the right side and the main supply.

4.1.13. Take out the stand out of the digester and tubes.

4.1.14. Keep the tubes in the stand and open the tubes with the Manual torque tool in the fume hood.

4.1.15. Dilute the sample as per requirement.

4.2 Precaution:

4.2.1 Wear acid-resistant gloves, mask, and goggles.

4.2.2 Sample digestion requires concentrated acids so avoid direct contact with the skin and do not inhale.

4.2.3 Pre-digestion should be done in an uncovered water bath in a fume hood.

4.2.4 Open tubes in a fume hood and point the vent hole away from the operator.

5.0 REVISION/CHANGE HISTORY: 

5.1 Instrument Operation and operator detail should be maintained

6.0 ATTACHMENTS

· Appendix-1: FLOW DIAGRAM FOR THE OPERATING PROCEDURE OF MICROWAVE 

DIGESTER

7.0 REFERENCES

· Instrument Operating Manual

                                                                  END OF THE DOCUMENT

You may like to read these links: 

1. List of All SOPs and Documents for the Chemistry Laboratory

2. List of All SOPs and Documents for Quality Control

3. List of All SOPs and Documents For Quality Assurance Dept.

4. List of SOPs and Documents Required to Achieve NABL Accreditation 

5. List of All SOPs and Documents for Laboratory Instruments and Equipment