Installation instruction: MVA-24 – 884 Professional VA fully automated for CVS with 858 Professional Sample Processor and Dosino sample transfer

Importance of Automated Voltammetric Analysis of Plating Additives

The control of suppressor, brightener, and leveler concentrations in electroplating baths is critical for consistent deposit quality, bath lifetime, and process reliability. Fully automated voltammetric methods combine precision electrochemical detection with robotic liquid handling to minimize operator error, boost throughput, and ensure reproducible results in industrial and research quality‐control environments.

Objectives and Overview

This study describes the configuration and operation of a Metrohm MVA-24 automated system, comprising an 884 Professional VA analyzer, an 858 Professional Sample Processor, and multiple Dosino dosing units. The main goals are to demonstrate how to install, connect, and program the system for:

• Determination of suppressor and brightener by cyclic voltammetry with CVS or CPVS techniques.
• Quantification of leveler by modified linear approximation (MLAT) or response curve calibration.
• Automated sample handling, reagent addition, and rinsing routines for high sample throughput.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The workflow integrates:

• 800 and 807 Dosino units for precise addition of fixed and variable volumes of auxiliary solutions (VMS), concentrates, and standards.
• An 884 Professional VA module equipped with working, auxiliary, and reference electrodes for stripping voltammetry measurements.
• An 858 Sample Processor with a rack for 11 mL and 50 mL vials to automate sample uptake, positioning, and waste management.
• A 843 membrane pump station for controlled rinsing and draining of the measuring vessel.

Used Instrumentation

• 884 Professional VA fully automated for CVS with integrated Dosino ports
• 858 Professional Sample Processor for VA/CVS with Dosino sample transfer
• Two 800 Dosino dosing systems
• Four 807 Dosing Units (2 mL, 5 mL, 50 mL configurations)
• 843 Membrane Pump Station and remote cabling
• Professional VA/CVS electrode set

Key Results and Discussion

The system achieves unattended series of determinations with:

• Automatic calibration and sample additions based on pre-programmed volumes.
• Flexible method calls that prepare dosing units only when vial positions change, saving time and reagents.
• Rinse‐and‐drain sequences optimized for varying cell volumes (50–150 mL) to avoid carry-over.
• Integration of different calibration approaches (DT, MLAT, RC) and sample dilutions without manual intervention.

Benefits and Practical Applications

By automating routine tasks, laboratories improve reproducibility, reduce operator variability, and handle larger sample batches. The method suits electroplating facilities, research labs, and QA/QC workflows in automotive, electronics, and metal finishing industries.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Next‐generation systems may integrate real‐time data analytics, machine learning–based peak recognition, and remote monitoring via IoT. Miniaturized flow cells and disposable sensor cartridges could further increase throughput and lower maintenance.

Conclusion

The Metrohm MVA-24 platform provides a robust, flexible solution for automated voltammetric analysis of plating bath additives, significantly improving workflow efficiency and data quality.

Reference

Metrohm Application Bulletin 444/1, Version 03/2024