How to encapsulate samples
Solid samples must be encapsulated in tin (Sn) or silver (Ag) so they remain intact and do not leak or contaminate other samples. The tin is an important combustion catalyst in the EA used for organic carbon and nitrogen isotope analysis. Please ask some one if you are not sure which type of capsule to use. Also, alternative capsules (i.e., nickel) are unacceptable.
You can manually seal the capsules using two sets of forceps with blunt tips to form them into cubical or cylindrical shapes.
1. Pinch the top closed and fold it over
2. Press and hold the capsule top to bottom while using the other forceps to pinch the sides inward
3. Repeat until you have a compact tightly packed capsule shaped as a cube or sphere.
Follow out youtube channel UCM Isotopes for helpful videos on weighing tips and instructions!
