the
Analytical Scientist
(^42) The Spectroscopist Inside
“On the instrument side, I would like to see
more hybrid developments of LIBS with
other instrumental approaches (Raman–
Fluorescence–Absorption, TOF–MS).
Such instruments take advantage of the
differing information capabilities of each
technique, allowing the near-complete
characterization of the sample.
In data treatment, I would welcome
a universally accepted, pitfall-free,
chemometric protocol, responding to the
different analytical problems encountered
with different types of samples.
On the fundamental side, I would
like to see increased attention and effort
devoted to the absolute calibration of the
instrument, from sample to signal (ions or
photons). It’s a huge challenge, but even
small steps forward will be beneficial.”
Nicoló Omenetto, Research Professor,
Department of Chemistry, University of
Florida, USA.
“There are a number of
developments I would
like to see in the field,
including:
- A broadly
tunable
narrow-band
UV-Vis laser.
This would
provide greater
selectivity in
fundamental
molecular
spectroscopy and
make multi-element
analysis by atomic
absorption, atomic
fluorescence, and
laser-enhanced
ionization
spectroscopies
possible. - A micro or nano optical
spectrometer based on molecular
filters. This would simplify
remote, unattended analysis,
new generations of high-
selectivity optical sensors, and
possibly implantable optical
spectrometers. - An ICP replacement with
little or no argon consumption,
low power requirement (less
than 100W), and no matrix
interferences to allow ICP-
AES and possibly ICP-MS in
unattended, remote operations. - A low-cost multichannel ion or
electron detector (analogous to
a charge coupled device, CCD),
which would provide ‘all the
signal, all the time.’ - A field-compatible mass
spectrometer. Once widely
available, such devices could
transfer many laboratory mass-
spectrometric measurements to
the plant, physician’s office,
or field.- A glow-discharge emission
or mass spectrometer that
offers both depth-resolved and
surface-resolved elemental
concentrations, offering many of
the advantages of secondary-ion
mass spectrometry (SIMS) but at
lower cost and greater speed. - A source for ambient desorption/
ionization mass spectrometry
(ADI-MS) that is free from
matrix interferences and
offers accurate quantification
information.”
Gary Hieftje, Distinguished
Professor Emeritus, Mann Chair in
Chemistry, Indiana University,
Indiana, USA