HORIBA has announced the launch of Aqualog-Next A-TEEM Spectrometer, the fifth generation of the Aqualog spectrometer, designed for water research and environmental analysis. The Aqualog-Next integrates new EzSpec software, enhancing user experience and ensuring data integrity. EzSpec software provides an intuitive workflow for method setup, acquisition, processing and reporting. Its new database integration allows for easy filtering and searching of data files, while advanced tools include inner-filter effect correction, Rayleigh masking, RSU normalization and 3D-to-2D profiling. Users can generate ASCII file exports and PDF reports for streamlined data sharing.
Aqualog-Next is a dual-function spectrometer that simultaneously acquires absorbance and fluorescence excitation-emission matrices (EEMs) using HORIBA’s patented A-TEEM technology. Equipped with an ultra-fast CCD detector, Aqualog-Next captures A-TEEM fingerprints in seconds, significantly outperforming traditional scanning PMT fluorometers.
The Aqualog-Next also addresses fluorescence inner filter effect (IFE) issues by collecting absorbance and fluorescence data simultaneously, applying corrections for more accurate EEM measurements.
The Aqualog-Next is used in a range of water research applications, including:
- Climate Change and NOM Analysis – Tracks global colored dissolved organic matter (CDOM) patterns to assess carbon contributions in aquatic environments.
- Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) Monitoring – Detects fluorescence signatures associated with HABs, providing early indicators of bloom events.
- Drinking Water Compliance – Tracks fluorescence fingerprints of natural organic matter (NOM) to optimize organics removal and mitigate disinfection byproduct (DBP) formation.
- Membrane Fouling in Advanced Water Treatment – Investigates how wastewater treatment designs and operational parameters affect membrane performance and fouling.
- Petroleum and Oil Spill Detection – Provides optical detection of hydrocarbons at low concentrations, distinguishing them from natural dissolved organic matter.
Key features include:
- A-TEEM™ Spectroscopy Technology – Simultaneous absorbance and fluorescence EEM acquisition for comprehensive spectral data, including non-fluorescent absorbing parameters such as specific UV absorbance (SUVA).
- NIST Traceability – Fully compatible with National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standard reference materials for fluorescence and absorbance measurements.
- Multivariate Analysis Compatibility – Supports PARAFAC, PCA and PLS models for decomposition, classification and regression analysis.
The optional A-TEEM Direktor Multivariate Analysis Suite offers a guided workflow for fluorescence A-TEEM data analysis, including predictive modeling with PARAFAC, PCA and PLS models. Additionally, the Datastream Dashboard, a web-based interface, enables real-time water quality monitoring and data analysis.
Aqualog-Next supports various accessories including the Fast-03 autosampler accessory. The Fast-03 hardware controls provide real-time access for batch experiment configuration, priming, cleaning and maintenance.