Skalar analytical equipment generally operates on principles of continuous flow analysis (CFA), high-temperature combustion, and detection methods like infrared and thermal conductivity.

 Skalar analytical equipment generally operates on principles of continuous flow analysis (CFA), high-temperature combustion, and detection methods like infrared and thermal conductivity. These instruments are used for analyzing various parameters in different types of samples like water, soil, and solid materials. 

Here's a more detailed look at some key principles:

1. Continuous Flow Analysis (CFA): 

Principle: Samples are carried through a system of tubes and reactors where they react with reagents, and the resulting products are measured by a detector.

Applications: Skalar SAN analyzers for total nitrogen and total phosphorus in various water types.

Benefits: Automated, efficient, and suitable for a wide range of samples.

2. High-Temperature Combustion: 

Principle:

Samples are heated to high temperatures to convert organic compounds into gases that can be detected.

Applications:

PRIMACS™ series for total carbon and total nitrogen analysis in solid samples.

Methods:

Dumas methodology for nitrogen analysis and infrared detection for carbon analysis.

3. Detection Methods:

Non-Dispersive Infrared (NDIR) Detection: Measures carbon dioxide produced during combustion or acidification. 

Thermal Conductivity Detection (TCD): Measures the amount of nitrogen gas produced after reduction of nitrogen oxides. 

Photo-Multiplier Tube (PMT) Detection: Detects photons emitted in chemical reactions, such as the reaction between nitrogen and ozone. 

4. Sample Preparation and Handling:

In-line sample preparation:

Many Skalar analyzers offer automated sample preparation steps like UV-digestion, distillation, extraction, dialysis, and ion-exchange. 

Automated sample introduction:

PRIMACS™ SNC-100 analyzers use a unique vertical "bottom-to-top" system for introducing samples into the combustion furnace. 

Sample handling systems:

SP2000 robotic analyzers and other systems automate sample handling, including sample preparation, pipetting, titration, and photometric detection. 

5. Software and Automation:

FlowAccess software: Controls the entire analyzer, including start-up, function control, autoscaling, and result processing. 

Automated standards creation: Skalar samplers offer automatic standards creation and reagent addition. 

High-throughput analysis: SP2000 robotic analyzers are designed for high-throughput analytical testing, automating processes like sample preparation and detection.