Expert Answers: Spectroscopy Tips and Troubleshooting
Working with atomic spectroscopy techniques can present numerous challenges, including matrix effects, interferences, drift, carryover, tight timelines, and compliance demands, to name a few.
Bring your questions on ICP-MS, ICP-OES, and AAS to our upcoming Q&A session. Rob Thomas, principal scientist of Scientific Solutions, will address the decisions that shape trace-element analysis—how to choose an approach, set up workflows, and keep data defensible. We’ll let your questions guide the conversation.
By attending this webinar, you will learn:
- Clear ways to compare ICP-MS, ICP-OES, and AAS for your needs
- Practical guidance on setup, workflow design, and data quality
- Tips to avoid common pitfalls and streamline routine work
- Resources to help you apply best practices in your lab
With the opportunity to ask specific questions, you’ll walk away with practical insights to help with your unique application.
Presenter: Robert Thomas (Asst. Adjunct Professor, University of North Dakota)
Robert (Rob) Thomas is the principal scientist of Scientific Solutions, a consulting company that serves the educational needs of the trace element user community. He has worked in the field of atomic and mass spectroscopy for over 50 years, including 24 years for a manufacturer of atomic spectroscopic instrumentation. Rob is the editor and frequent contributor of the Atomic Perspectives (AP) column in Spectroscopy Magazine and also serves on the editorial advisory board of Technology Networks. In addition, he recently accepted the position of Assistant Adjunct Professor at the University of North Dakota. Rob also leads the plasma spectrochemistry, heavy metals task force on the ACS Committee on Reagent Chemicals.
Rob has written over 130 technical publications, including a 15-part tutorial series on ICP-MS, and authored 6 textbooks on the fundamental principles and applications of ICP-MS. His most recent book is entitled, Practical Guide to ICP-MS and Other Atomic Spectroscopy Techniques: A Tutorial for Beginners. Rob has an advanced degree in analytical chemistry from the University of Wales, UK, and is also a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (FRSC) and a Chartered Chemist (CChem).
