October 18th 2024
Top articles published this week include an article about hyperspectral imaging in human skin research, a peer-reviewed article about analyzing geological samples using atomic spectroscopy techniques, and an equipment roundup piece about the latest products in the industry.
Analysis of Trace Elements as Impurities in Materials Used for Lithium-Ion Battery Production
September 1st 2022Lithium-based batteries are key for moving away from the combustion of fossil fuels at the point of use. ICP-OES and ICP-MS methods can measure trace-element impurities that may affect battery performance.
ICP-MS Configuration and Optimization for Successful Routine Analysis of Undiluted Seawater
September 1st 2022ICP-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.
Understanding the Fundamental Components of Sample Introduction for ICP-OES and ICP-MS
August 1st 2022This 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.
ICP-MS: Key Steps to Control Contamination and Achieve Low Detection Limits
August 1st 2022Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) instruments can perform low-level elemental analysis in a wide range of sample types, from high-purity chemicals to high matrix digests. But achieving consistently low detection limits requires good control of elemental contamination, as well as spectral interferences. A clean working area, careful selection of reagents, and good sample handling techniques are key to successful trace and ultratrace elemental analysis. In this article, we provide five practical tips for controlling contaminants and minimizing detection limits.
Donald J. Douglas Wins 2022 Winter Conference Lifetime Achievement Award in Plasma Spectroscopy
January 14th 2022Donald J. Douglas has won the 2022 Winter Conference Lifetime Achievement Award in Plasma Spectroscopy. Douglas will receive the award, presented by Thermo Fisher Scientific, on Monday, January 17, at the Winter Conference on Plasma Spectrochemistry in Tuscon, Arizona.
The 2022 Emerging Leader in Atomic Spectroscopy Award
January 1st 2022Denise M. Mitrano of ETH Zurich, the 2022 winner of the Emerging Leader in Atomic Spectroscopy Award, is applying ICP-MS and single-particle ICP-MS to elucidate the transport and impact of nanomaterials and nano- and microplastics.
Determination of Elemental Impurities in a Nasal Spray Using ICP-MS
December 7th 2021A tutorial and spreadsheet for the validation and bottom-up uncertainty evaluation of quantifications performed by instrumental methods of analysis based on linear weighted calibrations were presented by Ricardo J.N. Bettencourt da Silva of the University of Lisbon in Lisbon, Portugal, and colleagues. This software tool was successfully applied to the determination of the mass concentration of Cd, Pb, As, Hg, Co, V, and Ni in a nasal spray by ICP-MS after samples dilution and acidification. Bettencourt da Silva spoke to Spectroscopy about applying this software tool and the implications for a better understanding of quantitative analytical results.
Impact of Measurement Protocol on ICP-MS Data Quality Objectives: Part I
October 1st 2021The way the analytical signal is managed in ICP-MS has a direct impact on the results generated. In this first of a two-part series, we explain the fundamental principles of a scanning quadrupole and how measurement protocols can be optimized based on data quality objectives.
Studying Inorganic Arsenic, Heavy Metals, and Iodine in Dried Seaweed
September 1st 2021Seaweed has become a popular ingredient in Western diets. Concerns for heavy metals and inorganic arsenic have been raised as potential risks to consumers. Methods for analysis are described, including microwave digestion, HPLC, and ICP-MS for quantitation and speciation.
The Determination of Metals in Disposable, Non-Medical Face Masks by ICP-OES
September 1st 2021The determination of metals in hygienic face masks is important for global heath at this time. Following the guidelines of ISO 18562-4, an ICP-OES method is described including sample preparation, analysis, and validation of the methodology.