Topic

Articles

Using internal standards is a common technique to correct for variations in sample matrices and the effect this has on analyte intensities. There are several basic criteria to be considered when using internal standards: selection of appropriate internal standards, the concentration added to the solutions analyzed, setting up in the correct view (axial vs. radial), how to introduce the internal standard to the solutions to be analyzed, and evaluating the resulting data. Each of these topics are considered and suggestions presented.

Key Points to Remember When Using Internal Standards for Sample Analysis by ICP-OES 

The ICP–MS mass spectrum contains useful additional information, but how to obtain that information is the question. Here, we provide the answer. 

Non-Specific Calibration Combined with Helium Collision Mode for Elemental Screening

The Bouguer-Beer-Lambert law has its limitations and it doesn't always properly reflect the physical phenomena at play. This article examines the law's limitations. 

Understanding the Limits of the Bouguer-Beer-Lambert Law

In this short overview, we consider cases for diffuse reflection spectroscopy and introduce the Kubelka-Munk diffuse reflectance formula. We conclude by comparing diffuse transmittance, diffuse reflectance, logarithmic transforms of both, and the Kubelka-Munk transform for mid-infrared spectroscopy of the same sample.

A Brief Look at Optical Diffuse Reflection (ODR) Spectroscopy

Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) is a versatile part of the toolbox of fluorescence methods. This through-space, photon-less energy transfer process between a donor fluorophore and an acceptor chromophore is perhaps most famous for its utility as a “molecular ruler” that can resolve nanometer-scale distances. FRET is also a popular and advantageous basis for biomolecular assays and sensors.

Key Steps to Follow in a FRET Experiment

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 Fundamental Components of Sample Introduction for ICP-OES and ICP-MS

Inductively 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. 

ICP-MS: Key Steps to Control Contamination and  Achieve Low Detection Limits

Spectroscopy offers a range of available techniques that can be differentiated by the use or omission of reference spectra. 

Valuable Techniques for Repeatable Absorbance Measurements

The physics and chemistry of the phenomenon have been well known for many years, and this knowledge can tell us how self-absorption can be not only “corrected,” but also tuned to our advantage in analytical applications of LIBS.

Avoiding Misunderstanding Self-Absorption in Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) Analysis

Seven common mistakes in the analysis of Raman spectra can lead to overestimating the performance of a model.

Tutorials