Ion Chromatography Analysis of Bromate in Natural Water Samples Using Ammonia as a Preservative
Spectroscopy E-Books
Ethylenediamine, the preservative specified in EPA Method 300.1, can introduce a chromatographic artifact when analyzing samples containing elevated carbonate concentrations as a result of the formation of ethylenediamine carbamate. This artifact can compromise the ability to measure low levels of bromate in drinking water. The use of ammonia as an alternative preservative was investigated and found to produce improved bromate chromatography under challenging conditions. The improvement was seen on two different stationary phases, demonstrating that the benefit of this alternative preservative is independent of the column chemistry.
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High-Speed Laser MS for Precise, Prep-Free Environmental Particle Tracking
April 21st 2025Scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have demonstrated that a fast, laser-based mass spectrometry method—LA-ICP-TOF-MS—can accurately detect and identify airborne environmental particles, including toxic metal particles like ruthenium, without the need for complex sample preparation. The work offers a breakthrough in rapid, high-resolution analysis of environmental pollutants.
Karl Norris: A Pioneer in Optical Measurements and Near-Infrared Spectroscopy, Part II
April 21st 2025In this two-part "Icons of Spectroscopy" column, executive editor Jerome Workman Jr. details how Karl H. Norris has impacted the analysis of food, agricultural products, and pharmaceuticals over six decades. His pioneering work in optical analysis methods including his development and refinement of near-infrared spectroscopy, has transformed analysis technology. In this Part II article of a two-part series, we summarize Norris’ foundational publications in NIR, his patents, achievements, and legacy.
