The Ionplus CHS‑2 (Carbonate Handling System) is a fully automated head‑space sampling system designed for the efficient preparation of carbonate, dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC), and liquid combustion samples for radiocarbon analysis. It integrates a high‑capacity heater block capable of holding up to 64 septum‑sealed Labco Exetainers® or larger serum bottles, an autosampler, a water trap, and an adjustable flow regulator to ensure controlled flushing, hydrolysis, and CO₂ collection. The CHS‑2 automates every major step of carbonate processing including flushing, acid addition, hydrolyzing, and sampling and introduces a key improvement over earlier systems with its automated tool‑change mechanism that switches seamlessly between acid syringes and sampling needles. Optional modules, such as a water kit for large‑volume DIC samples, expand its versatility. Once carbonates react with phosphoric acid, the released CO₂ is dried and trapped for downstream graphitization or direct introduction into MiCaDaS systems, enabling high‑precision radiocarbon measurements under tightly controlled reaction conditions.
