Top articles published this week include an interview that used handheld near-infrared (NIR) spectrometry to classify polyolefin films, previews of the upcoming Pittcon conference next week, and an article about some of the most influential spectroscopists.
This week, Spectroscopy published various articles that touch upon several important application areas such as atomic spectroscopy and artificial intelligence (AI). We also have a few articles dedicated to covering the upcoming Pittcon conference. Several key techniques are highlighted, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Raman spectroscopy, and near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy. Happy reading!
Using Handheld NIR Spectrometry in the Classification of Polyolefin Films
Near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy is a key tool for sorting plastic waste, particularly polyolefins used in packaging. However, multilayer films pose challenges due to weak spectral signals. A recent study investigated how reflective backgrounds—such as copper, aluminum, gold, and silver—affect classification accuracy using a handheld NIR spectrometer (1). Results showed that reflective materials enhance spectral quality, improving differentiation between polyolefin and non-polyolefin films in a single measurement (1). These findings could optimize plastic recycling processes and address waste management challenges (1). Spectroscopy interviewed Hana Stipanovic, the study’s corresponding author, to discuss the implications of this research for improving plastic waste sorting.
Pittcon 2025: Highlighting Talks on Atomic Spectroscopy
Pittcon 2025 will feature sessions on atomic spectroscopy and elemental analysis, including a symposium on portable devices in art and archaeology. Led by Mary Kate Donais, it will explore portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) and other tools for studying ancient artifacts (2). Talks include Marcos Martinon-Torres on pre-Hispanic ceramics in Colombia, Laure Dussubieux on pXRF and Raman spectroscopy in museum research, and Aaron Shugar on handheld XRF for sub-micron scanning (2). Donais will conclude with a study on Etruscan weaving tools, using spectroscopy to uncover insights into production, trade, and women’s roles (2). These presentations highlight the power of portable spectroscopy in cultural heritage research.
Pittcon 2025: Preview the Symposium on AI and Vibrational Spectroscopy
Pittcon 2025 is set to take place in Boston, bringing together industry professionals to explore advancements in laboratory science. A key focus in spectroscopy will be atomic and vibrational techniques, with a symposium on AI’s role in vibrational spectroscopy. Organized by Igor Lednev, this session will cover infrared (IR), near-infrared (NIR), and Raman spectroscopy for bioanalysis, forensics, and medicine (3). Jürgen Popp will discuss AI-driven Raman spectroscopy for rapid medical diagnostics, while Lednev will highlight AI-enhanced forensic applications, including blood identification (3). Talks by Ji-Xin Cheng and Shuxia Guo will further explore AI’s impact on vibrational spectroscopy, emphasizing its transformative potential across disciplines (3).
Featured Biographies for the Icons of Spectroscopy Laureate Series
Our “Icons of Spectroscopy” laureate series recognizes and honors some of the most famous spectroscopists who have made significant contributions to the field. These articles celebrate scientists whose work has significantly advanced modern spectroscopic methods used in current research and applications (4). Many of these notable spectroscopists have been commemorated through awards bearing their names (4). In this article, we spotlight the articles in this series.
Tomas Hirschfeld: Prolific Research Chemist, Mentor, Inventor, and Futurist
In this edition of “Icons of Spectroscopy,” executive editor Jerome Workman, Jr. explores the contributions Thomas Hirschfeld made to spectroscopy, biomedical diagnostics, and sensor technology (5). Tomas B. Hirschfeld (1939–1986) was a chemist known for his work at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and Block Engineering, which led to innovations like the first commercial Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectrometer and fiber-optic sensors (5). With over 100 patents and nearly 200 publications, his research in Raman spectroscopy and chemometrics continues to influence biomedical diagnostics, remote sensing, and chemical analysis today (5).
Exoplanet Discovery Using Spectroscopy
March 26th 2025Recent advancements in exoplanet detection, including high-resolution spectroscopy, adaptive optics, and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven data analysis, are significantly improving our ability to identify and study distant planets. These developments mark a turning point in the search for habitable worlds beyond our solar system.
Using Spectroscopy to Reveal the Secrets of Space
March 25th 2025Scientists are using advanced spectroscopic techniques to probe the universe, uncovering vital insights about celestial objects. A new study by Diriba Gonfa Tolasa of Assosa University, Ethiopia, highlights how atomic and molecular physics contribute to astrophysical discoveries, shaping our understanding of stars, galaxies, and even the possibility of extraterrestrial life.
New Telescope Technique Expands Exoplanet Atmosphere Spectroscopic Studies
March 24th 2025Astronomers have made a significant leap in the study of exoplanet atmospheres with a new ground-based spectroscopic technique that rivals space-based observations in precision. Using the Exoplanet Transmission Spectroscopy Imager (ETSI) at McDonald Observatory in Texas, researchers have analyzed 21 exoplanet atmospheres, demonstrating that ground-based telescopes can now provide cost-effective reconnaissance for future high-precision studies with facilities like the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) (1-3).