Atomic Spectroscopy

A team of researchers has developed a greener and simplified method for determining elemental contaminants and metal catalyst residues in carbon nanotubes (CNTs) using ICP-OES.

Minimizing sample preparation issues requires users to consider method LODs as well as high purity polymer materials for sample collection and preparation. Here, we examine proper personal analytical practices one can take to avoid environmental contamination.

A new study presents significant improvements in the online-laser ablation of solids in liquids (online-LASIL) technique for quantitative analysis of trace elements in technological materials.

Researchers have compared two types of bismuth atomic lamps for atomic fluorescence spectrometry (AFS) and found that the electrodeless discharge lamp (EDL) exhibited significantly higher sensitivity and lower detection limits compared to the boosted discharge hollow cathode lamp (Superlamp).

Researchers have developed advanced laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) methods for rapid element quantification in alloy particles, aiding in the efficient analysis and identification of their source materials.

Scientists have introduced a statistical definition of the limit of detection (LOD) for calibration-free laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (CF-LIBS). The study provides a robust framework for LOD determination, addressing the high LOD associated with LIBS and enabling more accurate trace element analysis.

This study addresses crucial factors often overlooked in the literature and provides guidelines for improving the accuracy and interpretation of temperature measurements in plasma diagnostics.

A simple and inexpensive method for the determination of hexavalent chromium in aqueous solutions was developed using liquid-liquid microextraction combined with total reflection X-ray fluorescence spectrometry.

Good sample handling practices that minimize sample contamination during preparation of inorganic analyses are discussed, using glass and low purity quartz as examples.

Our annual review of new products for atomic and molecular spectroscopy, including details by category and highlights of overarching trends.

A new article reviews methods for determining trace elements in germanium and germanium dioxide, highlighting the advantages and limitations of methods with and without matrix separation procedures.

New research compares light capturing approaches in LIBS for multichannel spectrometers, highlighting the challenges of shot-to-shot variations in plasma morphology and their effect on calibration-free LIBS.

New research presents a fast and sensitive method for the simultaneous determination of zinc and iron in vegetables and plant material using HR-CS GF-AAS.

A recent study provided a procedure for evaluating the dead time effect and highlighted the importance of careful consideration of non-linear effects in TXRF spectroscopy.

The use of ICP-MS is constantly expanding into an ever-wider variety of applications. We assess the current landscape and where the technique is going in the future.

The SCGD ambient-atmosphere microplasma has emerged as an alternate excitation source for atomic emission spectroscopy that is able to perform admirably compared to established, conventional approaches—with lower cost.

Andreas Riedo of the Physics Institute at the University of Bern, the 2023 winner of the Emerging Leader in Atomic Spectroscopy Award, is using laser ablation–desorption ionization mass spectrometry (LIMS) to chemically analyze complex mineral surfaces found in space exploration.

Nominate a colleague for the 2024 Emerging Leader in Atomic Spectroscopy Award!

Is ICP-MS instrumentation ready to handle the requirements of AOAC Method 2015.01 for the determination of toxic elements in food—including dealing with interferences? We ran this study to check.

Andreas Riedo of the Physics Institute at the University of Bern has won the 2023 Emerging Leader in Atomic Spectroscopy Award, which is presented by Spectroscopy magazine.

In this third part of this four-part series on spectroscopy instrument components, we take a closer look at components used in atomic spectroscopy instrumentation—from beryllium and Kapton windows used in X-ray analysis to sampler and skimmer cones and plasma torches for ICP systems.

ICP-MS is increasingly being used to analyze complex matrices, but an ICP-MS instrument optimized for the highest sensitivity may not have the sufficient matrix tolerance to analyze high-salt samples. We describe a method to optimize plasma robustness and interference control for accurate, routine analysis of critical trace elements in undiluted seawater.

Brines from desalination plants are increasingly being seen as a source of valuable elements, such as lithium, rubidium, and cesium. We show how ICP-OES can be used to measure the concentrations of such elements in brines to assess the economic feasibility of their recovery.

This tutorial explains the most critical components of the sample introduction system of modern ICP-optical emission spectroscopy (OES) and ICP-mass spectrometry (MS) instruments, providing analysts with a guide for initial configuration settings and recommended maintenance intervals for reliable daily operation.

Understanding the proper ways to plan, run, and report proficiency tests will help you avoid errors and contamination.

In this study, X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy was used to analyze heavy metals in five traditional Mongolian medicines, and the results were compared to those obtained using ICP-MS.

Proficiency testing (PT) can assess the performance of individuals or laboratories, but it’s important to understand how to do it properly.

Our annual review of new products for atomic and molecular spectroscopy, including details by category and highlights of overarching trends.

A letter to the editors of Spectroscopy regarding the "H-Classic Papers in Atomic Spectroscopy" article published in the November 2021 issue, along with a response from the authors.

A note from the editors of Spectroscopy regarding the "H-Classic Papers in Atomic Spectroscopy" article published in the November 2021 issue.