Best of the Week: The Utility of ICP-MS-Based Techniques, Lithium-Ion Battery Anodes, Reflecting on Spring SciX

Welcome to Best of the Week from Spectroscopy magazine. This week on Spectroscopy, we explored how inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (ICP-MS)-based methods are being used in energy and environmental applications, how Raman spectroscopy is advancing lithium-ion battery research, and the key takeaways that emerged from the Spring SciX conference.^1–5

Let’s get into it.

First up, we released a new episode of “Pathways in Spectroscopy.” This week, we sat down with Ayush Agarwal to discuss his doctoral research on ICP-MS-based analytical methods for energy and environmental applications. Agarwal walks us through how he improved biogas quality control by quantifying siloxanes and sulfur compounds using gas chromatography coupled with ICP-MS.¹ He also developed high-throughput nanoparticle characterization techniques that enable simultaneous size and elemental analysis, reducing the need for time-consuming microscopy.¹ It's a fascinating look at how ICP-MS is pushing boundaries in both environmental monitoring and materials science.

Next, we're highlighting a conversation with Jennifer Ferguson, Applications Manager at Renishaw, recorded at the Spring SciX conference. Ferguson discusses how Raman spectroscopy is advancing lithium-ion battery research, specifically how it can distinguish crystalline from amorphous materials, monitor chemical changes during battery cycling, and assess particle distribution in carbon- and silicon-based anodes.² She also showcases how Renishaw's Strada Intelligent Raman Microscope is helping researchers connect fabrication variables, like slurry mixing speed, directly to battery performance and degradation.² As the push for better battery technology accelerates, this kind of analytical insight is invaluable.

And finally, we have a conference preview you won't want to miss. The 10th International Conference on Tip-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy, or TERS10, is coming up June 3rd through 5th at ETH Zurich.⁵ The program covers the latest advances in spatial resolution, signal enhancement, and emerging nanoscale applications.

And that’ll do it for the Best of the Week. Thanks for watching and reading our content, and we'll see you next time.

References

1. Agarwal, A.; Wetzel, W. What Can ICP-MS-Based Techniques Do For You? Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/what-can-icp-ms-based-techniques-do-for-you- (accessed 2026-05-26).
2. Ferguson, J.; Wetzel, W. Influencing Battery Lifespan and Performance with Lithium-Ion Battery Anodes. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/influencing-battery-lifespan-and-performance-with-lithium-ion-battery-anodes (accessed 2026-05-26).
3. Sloan-Dennison, S.; Wetzel, W. Securing a Postdoctoral Position at a Research University. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/securing-a-postdoctoral-position-at-a-research-university (accessed 2026-05-27).
4. Sloan-Dennison, S.; Bocklitz, T.; Ferguson, J.; Wetzel, W. Reflecting on Spring SciX: Advancements in Raman Spectroscopy and Artificial Intelligence. Spectroscopy. Available at: (accessed 2026-05-27).
5. Wetzel, W. Previewing the 10th International Conference on Tip-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/previewing-the-10th-international-conference-on-tip-enhanced-raman-spectroscopy (accessed 2026-05-26).