ATI® Laboratory Analysis | Professional ICP & Mass Spec Water Testing

ATI® Laboratory Analysis | Professional Water Testing

Maintaining a thriving reef requires more than just estimation. The ATI® Laboratory offers professional-grade analysis to determine key parameters and trace elements with the highest possible reliability. By identifying deviations from natural seawater, you can prevent common issues like nuisance algae and coral loss before they start.

Why Professional Lab Testing?

Under the direction of Dr. Ben Funk, the ATI® laboratory in Germany utilizes a suite of specialized instruments—including ICP-OES, ICP-MS, Ion Chromatography, and Titration—to provide reproducible results. We select the specific measurement method based on the element to ensure the most reliable data for your aquarium.

Choose the Right Analysis for Your Reef

Analysis Tier Technology Best For
Standard ICP-OES Regular Check-ups: High-accuracy readings of macro-elements and nutrients at an accessible price.
Pro ICP-OES + IC + Titration Routine Maintenance: Our most popular test. Includes Nitrate, KH, and a dedicated RO water check.
Ultimate-MS ICP-MS (Mass Spec) Maximum Precision: Detects ultra-trace elements and pollutants at levels invisible to standard testing.

Comprehensive Data for Every Parameter

Depending on your chosen test, ATI® provides digital reports on:

  • Salinity & KH: Precise Carbonate Hardness and PSU salt content.

  • Nutrients: Accurate tracking of Nitrate and Phosphate (Phosphorus).

  • Macroelements: Sodium, Calcium, Magnesium, Sulfur, Potassium, Bromine, Strontium, and Boron.

  • Trace Elements: Iodine, Iron, Manganese, Molybdenum, Barium, Lithium, and Silver.

  • Pollutants: Detection of Aluminum, Antimony, Copper, Lanthanum, Lead, and Mercury.

Source Water Safety

A unique feature of the Pro and Ultimate-MS analysis is the included RO/DI water check. By testing your freshwater source via ICP, we help you identify contaminants entering your system through exhausted resins or tap water before they can accumulate in your reef.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get my results?

After you send your sample to our Pennsylvania facility, we handle the transit to our laboratory in Germany. Once processed, you will receive a comprehensive digital report via the ATI® Lab portal, complete with actionable insights and dosing recommendations.

What is the difference between ICP-OES and ICP-MS?

While OES is excellent for major and minor elements, ICP-MS (Mass Spectrometry) is significantly more sensitive. It can detect trace elements and toxic heavy metals at much lower, physiologically relevant concentrations.

Why is testing for pollutants important?

Heavy metals like Copper, Tin, and Aluminum can build up over time from equipment wear or contaminated salts. Professional lab testing identifies these toxins before they cause coral bleaching or livestock loss.