The analysis of fertilizers for their Carbon and Nitrogen content can be done very rapidly and accurately on the Exeter Analytical CE-440. The CE-440 elemental analyzer uses thermal conductivity detectors to simultaneously analyze the nitrogen, carbon and hydrogen content. Interferences are removed through column packings and the combusted sample is converted into carbon dioxide, water vapor and nitrogen. Sample preparation is straightforward. Approximately 3 mg of fertilizer is weighed out in a tin capsule (P/N 6703-0418) which is placed in a nickel sleeve (P/N 6703-0499) for sample containment. A single standard is used to calibrate the instrument. For the data below Acetanilide (71.09%C, 6.71%H and 10.36%N) was used. Run Parameters Combustion Temperature: 975ºC Reduction Temperature: 700ºC Combustion Time: 20 Seconds Purge Time: 15 Seconds Fill Time: 44 Seconds Sample Weight: 2.0 - 5.0 mg The analysis of liquid fertilizer samples can also be done on the CE-440 without sacrificing accuracy or precision. Roughly 3 µl of sample is drawn into a syringe or micro pipette and injected into a tin capsule. The capsule is then sealed using an Exeter Analytical Capsule Sealer, weighed, and run with the same parameters as solids. Example data for some common household plant food is shown below. Analysis Report Sample ID %C %N Grace-Sierra 10-30-10 Fertilizer 00.60 12.03 (solid) 00.51 12.04 Sterns 8-7-6 Fertilizer 02.47 08.38 (liquid) 02.48 08.36

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