What Are Some of the Latest Developments in Atomic Spectroscopy?

Atomic spectroscopy is used for high-precision trace elemental analysis across a staggering array of disciplines, from forensic science to environmental protection. As industries demand lower limits of detection (LOD) and more sustainable practices, techniques such as inductively coupled plasma–optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) and microwave plasma–atomic emission spectroscopy (MP-AES) are evolving to meet these challenges.^1–4

In this Q&A, we explore the current applications and future trajectory of these powerful analytical tools.

How is atomic spectroscopy being utilized in modern forensic investigations, particularly when DNA evidence is unavailable?

Atomic spectroscopy is helping in applications where DNA is degraded, or DNA yields are too poor for identification. As an example, instead of studying DNA, researchers are turning to the elemental composition of human hair as an alternative marker.⁵ A recent proof-of-concept study successfully used electrothermal vaporization (ETV) coupled with ICP-OES to determine the sex of individuals by analyzing trace elements in hair samples.⁵

This method is notably "green," replacing older, environmentally harmful gases with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) powder as a carrier agent.⁵ By examining specific predictor elements like calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), lithium (Li), and antimony (Sb), the system achieved 100% classification accuracy in initial data sets.⁵ Crucially, the model was tested against chemically altered (dyed) hair, which often complicates forensic analysis by introducing or leaching elements; researchers identified Li and Sb as particularly robust markers because they show minimal sensitivity to hair dye.⁵

With rising costs and environmental concerns, what are the "greener" alternatives for routine laboratory testing?

For routine laboratory testing, one of the more environmentally friendly alternatives is MP-AES. For this reason, MP-AES is being used more often in environmental analysis, as well as in beverage analysis. A recent study examined how it can be used to accurately measure electrolytes in sports drinks, which require accurate labeling of electrolytes like sodium (Na), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg).³ Using a simple “dilute and shoot” method, laboratories can analyze these elements without the need for complex, time-consuming sample digestions.³

Unlike traditional ICP-OES, which consumes high volumes of costly argon gas, MP-AES utilizes a nitrogen plasma that can be extracted directly from the air using a nitrogen generator.³ As a result, it offers a safe, multi-element alternative for smaller labs that find ICP-OES too expensive to operate and Flame Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (FAAS) too slow or dangerous because of combustible gases.³

What are the most influential trends in environmental atomic spectroscopy for 2024–2026?

Atomic spectroscopy is also making strides in environmental analysis. One trend we are seeing is that there has been a shift toward interference-resilient and field-deployable technologies. The advancement of artificial intelligence (AI)-driven chemometrics to process complex geochemical data sets and the rise of inductively coupled plasma–tandem mass spectrometry (ICP-MS/MS) for advanced interference removal using reaction-cell gases like oxygen and ammonia are facilitating this shift.²

The question then becomes when to use specific atomic techniques. For example, while ICP-MS is often considered the gold standard for sensitivity, thermal decomposition amalgamation–atomic absorption spectroscopy (TDA-AAS) has been shown to outperform it for detecting mercury in marine sediments, reaching lower limits of quantification (LOQs).² Additionally, portable X-ray fluorescence (XRF) is increasingly used for rapid, on-site screening of contaminated soil, though researchers warn that laboratory confirmation via ICP-MS remains mandatory for certain elements because of method-dependent biases.²

How do scientists choose the right sample preparation for complex materials like geological rocks?

Atomic spectroscopy is also being used in geological analysis. Currently, the biggest challenge researchers face here is the material being studied. Rocks are composed of diverse mineral grains that resist dissolution, which makes them difficult to study.⁴ The choice of digestion method, whether it is aqua regia, microwave digestion, or alkali fusion, drastically impacts metal recovery rates.⁴

Alkali fusion is currently favored for the most comprehensive analysis of major elements (like silicon and aluminum) because it decomposes refractory minerals more effectively than acidic methods.⁴ In contrast, aqua regia is simple and inexpensive but often fails to dissolve minerals completely, leading to low recovery rates for many elements.⁴ Microwave digestion offers a middle ground; it provides a quick alternative and is particularly useful for avoiding molybdenum contamination, which can occur during alkali fusion.⁴

What does the future look like for the next generation of atomic spectroscopy instruments?

Currently, the industry is moving toward total elemental analysis with a focus on automation and "intelligent" systems.¹ A strategic development roadmap for these instruments highlights innovations like AI-driven plasma diagnostics and eco-argon gas-saving modes.¹

As a result, instrument manufacturers are testing their prototypes in real-world environments, such as dusty mining labs, corrosive oil rigs, or ultra-clean semiconductor facilities, to ensure that high-precision optics and detectors can withstand acidic vapors, mechanical vibrations, and temperature swings that cleanroom alpha testing cannot replicate.¹ This disciplined evolution ensures that the next generation of trace elemental analyzers is not just scientifically sound in a laboratory setting, but robust enough for the most demanding industrial applications.¹

References

1. Stephan, C.; Thomas, R. Atomic Spectroscopy Instrumentation Product Roadmap: Aligning Technical Breakthroughs in the Next Generation of Trace Elemental Analyzers Through Integrated Beta Validation. Spectroscopy 2026, ASAP. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/atomic-spectroscopy-instrumentation-product-roadmap-aligning-technical-breakthroughs-in-the-next-generation-of-trace-elemental-analyzers-through-integrated-beta-validation
2. Workman, Jr., J. The Top 10 Most Influential Applications of Atomic Spectroscopy in Environmental Analysis (2024-2026). Spectroscopy 2026, ASAP. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/the-top-10-most-influential-applications-of-atomic-spectroscopy-in-environmental-analysis-2024-2026- (accessed July 21, 2026).
3. Wright, D. D.; Southwell, B.; Zabik, E.; Coykendall, S.; Tourangeau, N. Determination of Electrolytes in Sports Drinks by Microwave Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (MP-AES). Spectroscopy 2025, 40 (8), 7–12. DOI: 10.56530/spectroscopy.zt3285w5
4. Caglayan, U.; Meryemoglu, B. Screening of Geological Rocks for Metal Composition Using Three Different Sample Preparation Methods for Atomic Spectroscopy. Spectrosc. Suppl.2025, 40 (wp7), ASAP. DOI: 10.56530/spectroscopy.gn6283p2
5. Wheeler, C.; Beauchemin, D. Expansion of a Greener Method of Sex Determination from Hair Using Electrothermal Vaporization Coupled to Inductively Coupled Plasma–Optical Emission Spectrometry. Spectroscopy 2026, ASAP. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/expansion-of-a-greener-method-of-sex-determination-from-hair-using-electrothermal-vaporization-coupled-to-inductively-coupled-plasma-optical-emission-spectrometry