Spectroscopy Advances Offer New Path for Monitoring Toxic Soil Contaminants

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A new review article published in Applied Spectroscopy Reviews highlights how visible–near infrared (Vis-NIR) spectroscopy could improve the way scientists detect and monitor potentially toxic trace elements (PTEs) in soil and sediments. The work, led by researchers from Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences) in China, provides a comprehensive assessment of Vis-NIR’s capabilities, challenges, and future directions in environmental monitoring (1).

What are the dangers of PTEs?

PTEs, such as lead, cadmium, and arsenic, represent a significant environmental concern because of their persistence and harmful effects on ecosystems and human health (1,2). Traditional methods for measuring PTE concentrations often involve chemical digestion and instrumental analysis, which, while accurate, are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and costly (1).

In this review article, the researchers highlight how vis-NIR spectroscopy can be a better alternative method for this type of environmental analysis. They show that this technique is greener, faster, and more scalable (1). Vis-NIR technology can predict PTE content, and the researchers describe the fundamental prediction mechanisms and the key factors that influence accuracy. The authors emphasize the importance of data processing and modeling strategies, which play a central role in extracting reliable signals from complex soil and sediment matrices (1). However, they also acknowledge current limitations, including inconsistencies in spectral data accessibility, variability in soil types, and a lack of standardized approaches for prediction modeling.

Currently, there is ongoing work being done to advance the applicability of vis-NIR spectroscopy in this space further. First, the researchers described how new models are being developed to account for PTEs in different chemical forms, refining spectral feature selection, and improving prediction model optimization (1). Second, the rise of interdisciplinary collaboration is leading to new and improved methodologies. And finally, the standardization of spectral data collection and improved accessibility will also be critical to expanding the technology’s reach (1).

By charting both the progress and obstacles in this rapidly evolving area, the review article shows how the practical adoption of Vis-NIR spectroscopy in environmental management is currently playing a key role in safeguarding soil and sediment quality worldwide and why it will continue to do so in the future.

References

1. Liu, K.; Qiu, H.; Li, X.; et al. Prediction of Potentially Toxic Trace Elements (PTEs) in Soil and Sediments Using vis-NIR Spectroscopy: A Review. Appl. Spectrosc. Rev. 2025, 1–29. DOI: 10.1080/05704928.2025.2502143
2. Kristamtini, Widyayanti, S.; Widodo, S.; et al. Potentially Toxic Elements’ (PTEs) Spatial Distribution in Agricultural Soils and their Impact on Ecological and Health Risks. Case Studies Chem. Environ. Eng. 2024, 10, 100936. DOI: 10.1016/j.cscee.2024.100936