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ICP Conference 2025 Recap04 Nov 202500:27:23

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In this special episode, Mike is joined by Technical Support Chemist Ashley Jones, R&D Chemist Autumn Phillips, and Production Manager Thomas Kozikowski to recap Inorganic Ventures’ 10th Annual ICP Conference. Held at IV’s headquarters in October, the event brought together scientists, partners, and guests for three days of presentations, hands-on labs, and collaboration. The team reflects on standout sessions covering topics like microwave digestion, ICP instrument maintenance, calibration curves, internal standards, and trace metals analysis, as well as the hands-on demos and lab tours that made this year’s conference unforgettable.

Whether you attended in person or are tuning in from afar, this recap captures the highlights, insights, and energy from a decade of IV’s ICP Conference.

Tune in and relive the celebration with Bench Boost!

Tech Support Q&A Part 228 Oct 202500:15:31

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In this episode, Mike is joined by Support Chemist Ashley Jones and Stock Production Manager Thomas Kozikowski to tackle listener-submitted questions from the lab. First, they unpack whether a standard additions curve from one sample can be applied to others—exploring when it’s valid, what risks come with instrument drift, and why true matrix matching matters. Then, they take on a tough scenario: how to handle high-throughput analysis of true unknown mineral samples using ICP-OES and ICP-MS. From digestion techniques and fusion methods to internal standard selection, interference management, and data review strategies, the team offers practical solutions for demanding analytical workflows.

If you’ve ever faced the challenge of balancing accuracy with efficiency in the lab, this episode is a must-listen.

Tune in and get expert guidance straight from the bench with Bench Boost.

SEAL Discrete Analyzer Reagents – Part 2: Chloride, Sulfate, Phosphate, and Ammonia Methods26 Aug 202500:09:13

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In this episode, the Inorganic Ventures team continues their overview of SEAL-compatible Discrete Analyzer Reagents—this time focusing on four essential nutrient and anion methods: chloride, sulfate, phosphate, and ammonia.

Ashley Jones and Liv Forbes break down the key reactions behind each method, including:

  • The iron thiocyanate reaction for chloride
  • Turbidimetric analysis of sulfate via barium sulfate formation
  • The molybdenum blue reaction for phosphate
  • A safer variant of the Berthelot reaction for ammonia

They also share storage tips, instrument compatibility notes, and how to adapt these reagents for non-SEAL platforms.

Compatibility and Precision Issues12 Dec 202300:13:18

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Welcome to Bench Boost by Inorganic Ventures, the ultimate podcast for analytical chemists! Join Mike, our host and Technical Director, as he chats with some of our experts about the sixth chapter of our ICP Operations Guide, Compatibility and Precision Issues.

If you would like to follow along with us you can view the ICP Operations Guide on our website.

Join us next week as we tackle Chapter 7, Linearity and Detection Issues.

For more on-demand learning, explore our new virtual ICP academy, IV Ignite, for video courses, downloadable resources, community forums, and so much more.

Nebulizers, Spray Chambers, and Torches05 Dec 202300:15:11

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Welcome to Bench Boost by Inorganic Ventures, the ultimate podcast for analytical chemists! Join Mike, our host and Technical Director, as he chats with some of our experts about the fifth chapter of our ICP Operations Guide, Compatibility and Precision Issues.

If you would like to follow along with us you can view the ICP Operations Guide on our website.

Join us next week as we tackle Chapter 6, Nebulizers, Spray Chambers, and Torches.

For more on-demand learning, explore our new virtual ICP academy, IV Ignite, for video courses, downloadable resources, community forums, and so much more.

Sample Introduction Systems28 Nov 202300:15:14

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Welcome to Bench Boost by Inorganic Ventures, the ultimate podcast for analytical chemists! Join Mike, our host and Technical Director, as he chats with some of our experts about the fourth chapter of our ICP Operations Guide, Sample Introduction Systems.

If you would like to follow along with us you can view the ICP Operations Guide on our website.

Join us next week as we tackle Chapter 5, Nebulizers, Spray Chambers, and Torches.

For more on-demand learning, explore our new virtual ICP academy, IV Ignite, for video courses, downloadable resources, community forums, and so much more.

Handling, Calculations, Preparation, and Storage of Standards21 Nov 202300:17:34

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Welcome to Bench Boost by Inorganic Ventures, the ultimate podcast for analytical chemists! Join Mike, our host and Technical Director, as he chats with some of our experts about the third chapter of our ICP Operations Guide, Handling, Calculations, Preparation, and Storage of Standards.

If you would like to follow along with us you can view the ICP Operations Guide on our website.

Join us next week as we tackle Chapter 4, Sample Introduction Systems.

For more on-demand learning, explore our new virtual ICP academy, IV Ignite, for video courses, downloadable resources, community forums, and so much more.

Quality Issues14 Nov 202300:22:59

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Welcome to Bench Boost by Inorganic Ventures, the ultimate podcast for analytical chemists! Join Mike, our host and Technical Director, as he chats with some of our experts about the second chapter of our ICP Operations Guide, Quality Issues.

If you would like to follow along with us you can view the ICP Operations Guide on our website.

Join us next week as we tackle Chapter 3, Handling, Calculations, Preparation, and Storage of Standards.

For more on-demand learning, explore our new virtual ICP academy, IV Ignite, for video courses, downloadable resources, community forums, and so much more. 

Elemental & Matrix Compatibility01 Nov 202300:13:04

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Welcome to Bench Boost by Inorganic Ventures, the ultimate podcast for analytical chemists! Join Mike, our host and Technical Director, as he chats with some of our experts about the first chapter of our ICP Operations Guide, Elemental & Matrix Compatibility. They'll share insights on HCl matrices, HF and HNO3 stability, and much more.

If you would like to follow along with us you can view the ICP Operations Guide on our website.

Join us next week as we tackle Chapter 2, Quality Issues.

For more on-demand learning, explore our new virtual ICP academy, IV Ignite, for video courses, downloadable resources, community forums, and so much more. 

SEAL Discrete Analyzer Reagents – Part 1: Silica and Nitrate Methods19 Aug 202500:09:20

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In this episode, the team dives into colorimetric methods for silica and nitrate analysis using SEAL Discrete Analyzer Reagents developed by Inorganic Ventures. Ashley Jones and Liv Forbes walk through the chemistries behind the molybdate silica method, cadmium coil nitrate reduction, and hydrazine-based nitrate reduction—along with practical maintenance tips for keeping your reduction efficiency in check.

They also discuss how to adapt these reagents for non-SEAL instruments, important considerations like pH and matrix matching, and which IV standards pair best with each method.

Platinum Sample Prep & Interference Considerations12 Aug 202500:06:13

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Platinum may be one of the easier precious metals to dissolve—but that doesn’t mean it’s easy to analyze.

In this episode, the team walks through sample prep strategies for a range of platinum-containing materials, including metals, alloys, oxides, ores, and organic matrices. They also cover the most reliable wavelengths and isotopes for ICP-OES and ICP-MS, while flagging key interferences like nickel, tungsten, and mercury, as well as tricky chloride-based polyatomics.

Need more guidance? The full prep guide is available on our website.

Understanding Colorimetric Methods05 Aug 202500:07:15

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Colorimetric chemistry may seem simple, but getting reliable results takes precision.

In this episode, the team breaks down the fundamentals of colorimetric methods, from basic indicators to more advanced workflows using benchtop spectrometers and discrete analyzers. They compare the pros and cons of each approach, share practical advice for pipetting accuracy, and highlight industries (like environmental, food, and pharma) where these methods are still essential.

Plus, Liv and Ashley share tips on reagent handling, photosensitive reactions, and instrument setup to help labs get the most from their colorimetric testing—whether you're working with pool water or cyanide.

Palladium Sample Prep & Interference Management29 Jul 202500:06:49

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In this episode, the team dives into palladium sample preparation for a variety of matrices—metals, alloys, oxides, organics, and ores—highlighting the best acid choices and digestion strategies from our sample prep guide.

The team also discusses common challenges when analyzing palladium using ICP-OES and ICP-MS, including isobaric and polyatomic interferences, oxide formation, and how trace organics can destabilize your results.

Need more guidance? The full prep guide is available on our website.

Rare Earths, Clean Data, and Smarter Detection22 Jul 202500:08:33

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In this episode, the Inorganic Ventures technical team answers real questions from labs in the field—covering environmental contamination solutions, rare earth stability, acid purity, and practical tips for improving detection limits. It’s an inside look at how small changes in setup and prep can make a big difference in data quality.

Sample Prep & ICP Testing for Nickel15 Jul 202500:07:26

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Nickel is common across many sample types, but prepping and testing it isn’t always straightforward.

In this episode, Liv Forbes joins Mike Booth to walk through Inorganic Ventures’ sample preparation strategies for nickel, covering dissolution tips for metals, alloys, oxides, ores, and organic matrices. They also dig into the challenges of ICP-MS analysis, including isobaric and polyatomic interferences, and share how to reduce contamination risks during sample handling.

For labs working with nickel in alloys, catalysts, or environmental samples, this one’s packed with practical advice you can apply right away.

Improving Oil Testing with Aqueous Hybrid Standards08 Jul 202500:21:28

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This week, we’re introducing a new method developed at Inorganic Ventures for analyzing oil samples using aqueous metal standards in a hybrid organic-aqueous solvent matrix—a solution that brings stability, cleaner data, and wider element compatibility to wear metals testing.

Madeline Gozzi joins Mike to explain how this method was designed to align with ASTM 5185 and 6595, and how our proprietary solvent is improving lab workflows with better solubility, built-in internal standards, and cleaner sulfur analysis. They also break down real-world validation efforts, including testing with NIST SRMs, dirty motor oil, and even biodiesel feedstocks.

The method is now available for beta testing. Tune in to learn more.

Iridium Sample Prep and Testing Tips01 Jul 202500:08:11

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Iridium is one of the most chemically stubborn—and analytically important—precious metals. In this episode, we walk through key methods for getting iridium metal, oxides, and alloys into solution, including aqua regia, high-temperature chlorination, and fusion techniques. We also cover ICP-OES and ICP-MS testing considerations, including line selection, interference management, and typical detection limits.

The team also shares the story behind the development of IV’s SI-traceable Iridium PCRM, created to address the lack of a NIST SRM and reduce uncertainty for labs that depend on high-purity standards.

ICP Conference Preview: A Decade In Our Element24 Jun 202500:15:24

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We’re back with a preview of our 10th Annual ICP Conference, taking place October 14–16, 2025, at Inorganic Ventures.

In this episode, you’ll hear what’s new this year—including hands-on lab stations, data analysis workshops, and expert talks on sample prep, contamination control, and method validation. We also share attendee feedback from past events, a look at the upcoming poster session, and a few social highlights you won’t want to miss.

🎟️ Registration is open! Space is limited, so save your spot now!

Back to Basics Part 4: Solution Stability21 Oct 202500:09:43

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In this episode of our Back-to-Basics series, we explore solution stability — why metals sometimes fall out of solution and how to prevent it. Joined by Support Chemist Ashley Jones and Stock Production Manager Thomas Kozikowski, Mike breaks down the chemistry behind hydrolysis, charge density, and how acid strength and complexing agents like chloride and fluoride can stabilize your standards. The team also revisits Le Chatelier’s Principle, showing how equilibrium shifts can be used to keep metals dissolved and prevent unwanted precipitates.

Whether you’re troubleshooting cloudy standards or refining your solution prep techniques, this episode offers practical chemistry insights you can apply directly in the lab.

Tune in and discover the science behind solution stability with Bench Boost!

Palladium Prep, Zeolite Digestion, and Discrete Analyzer Reagents17 Jun 202500:10:59

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In this episode, the team answers three timely tech support questions from the lab. First, we cover palladium stability in nitric acid and what to watch for when mixing it with elements like silver or antimony. Then, we walk through a quick, effective digestion method for zeolites, developed by Dr. Paul Gaines and featured in our elemental analysis guide. Finally, we share an update on our new discrete analyzer reagents — developed in partnership with Seal Analytical — and how they can be used with other instrument brands.

Want to learn more about our ready-to-use reagents? Check out the method chemistry one-sheets on our website or contact our team for help finding the right solution for your analyzer. Learn more.

Trace Analysis on Tour: A Spring Seminar Recap10 Jun 202500:19:38

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In this episode, the team recaps a busy season of spring seminars across the country in partnership with CEM, Agilent, and other ICP Alley collaborators. From Santa Clara to Baton Rouge, our chemists share what they presented, what they learned, and the real-world questions they answered — from mercury washout and silicon rinsing to internal standard selection and leaching practices.

They also reflect on what made these events so valuable: industry collaboration, hands-on instrument demos, and face-to-face connections with fellow chemists. Whether you attended or missed the tour, this episode gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how these seminars are helping labs tackle trace analysis challenges with more confidence.

Working with Rhodium: Prep, Stability, and Testing03 Jun 202500:09:57

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In this episode, we explore the challenges of working with rhodium, one of the rarest and most expensive elements used in analytical testing. From metal and oxide digestions to stability tips for nitric and hydrochloric matrices, our team shares methods to help you get this stubborn element into solution. We also cover ICP-OES and ICP-MS testing considerations, including line selection, common interferences, and why rhodium is a popular choice as an internal standard. Whether you're preparing standards or troubleshooting rare element analysis, this episode offers practical advice to improve your results.

Troubleshooting Hydroxide, LOQ, and Stock Standards27 May 202500:12:32

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Our experts tackle three customer questions straight from the tech support inbox. We start by explaining why glass isn’t a good choice for storing or diluting lithium hydroxide and offer tips on selecting the best materials to avoid contamination. Next, we clarify how measurement uncertainty and RSDs relate to the limit of quantification, helping you understand what your data is really telling you at trace levels. Finally, we review our CCS and CMS stock standard series, including why they’re split the way they are and what to watch for when combining them in custom mixes.

Cobalt Sample Prep and Testing Tips20 May 202500:10:36

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To kick off season 6, we continue our sample prep series with a focus on cobalt. Our team discusses digestion methods for cobalt metals, alloys, oxides, and ores, including when to use nitric acid, hydrochloric acid, or fusion techniques. We also cover testing considerations for ICP-OES and ICP-MS, including cobalt’s sensitivity, common interferences, and its role as an internal standard in oil and coolant analysis. Plus, hear tips for handling cobalt in pharmaceutical testing and learn about the resources available on our website to support your method development.

Real Talk on Chemistry Careers & Battery Industry Trends with Alexa Jackson13 May 202500:25:19

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In this episode, we sit down with Bench Boost listener and instructional designer Alexa Jackson to talk about career growth, chemistry communication, and her journey from academia to the battery industry. Alexa shares valuable advice for early-career chemists, including tips for writing lab notebooks your future self will thank you for, building scientific intuition, and embracing continuous learning.

She also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at her latest work with Pestana Solutions and the launch of Nanoverse Battery Courses, a resource designed to make battery science more accessible and engaging for STEM professionals.

Looking to continue the conversation? Connect with Alexa on LinkedIn to follow her work in chemistry education and the battery industry.

Titration Tips: Techniques, Troubleshooting, and Lab Lessons06 May 202500:12:38

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In this solo episode, Mike dives into titrations — a method that's still essential across industries like environmental testing, manufacturing, and even winemaking. Learn tips for improving accuracy, from proper burette qualification and indicator usage to endpoint detection techniques like quick drops vs. full drops. Mike also shares common troubleshooting advice for colorblindness in titrations, sliding endpoints, and working with high-concentration samples.

Chemistry Conspiracy: Chemtrails vs Contrails29 Apr 202500:11:56

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This episode takes a fun detour into the world of chemistry conspiracy theories! Mike Booth explores the science behind chemtrails vs. contrails and explains how you could actually test for elements like aluminum, barium, lead, and lithium in air samples using ICP-OES and ICP-MS. Learn practical tips for sample collection, how to avoid common interferences, and why trace analysis requires extra care with contamination control.

Troubleshooting Tips: High Recoveries, Complex Mixes, and Chloride Digestion Challenges22 Apr 202500:17:12

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In this episode, we tackle unexpected high recoveries, caused by internal standard signal timing during ICP analysis. Then we unpack a challenging multi-element blend, involving silver, tungsten, sulfur, rare earths, and more — plus how acid choices and order of addition impact stability. Finally, we dig into a sample prep puzzle for chloride analysis in iron phosphate, offering digestion strategies, matrix compatibility tips, and insights from Dr. Paul Gaines.

These real-world cases are packed with lessons to improve your prep, analysis, and problem-solving in the lab.

Troubleshooting Tips: Tune Solutions in Base and Trace Chloride in Silver Blends15 Apr 202500:14:13

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In this episode, we dive into two real-world stability challenges from our lab. First, we explore a custom tune solution prepared in dilute ammonium hydroxide for ICP-MS, designed to improve lab efficiency. Learn how it performed over time and how to use it effectively for short-term use. Then, we dig into an unexpected silver instability in a low-level multi-element blend — traced back to residual chloride from chromium prep.

From method design to trace contamination troubleshooting, this episode is full of practical lessons for anyone working with custom solutions or chasing long-term stability.

Tech Support Q&A 14 Oct 202500:11:25

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In this episode, we tackle real-world technical support questions submitted by listeners. Joined by R&D Chemists Liv Forbes & Autumn Phillips and Tech Support Chemist Ashley Jones, we explore three unique challenges:

  • Stabilizing nitrite (NO₂) standards for ion chromatography and why pH control is the key to preventing unwanted oxidation.
  • Calculating tolerance intervals, including how to use statistical tools to set confident, population-based limits in your data.
  • Troubleshooting tungsten recovery in high-molybdenum matrices on ICP-OES, covering the role of internal standards, acid chemistry, and smarter wavelength selection.

From practical lab prep tips to advanced troubleshooting insights, this episode is packed with knowledge you can put into action right away.

Tune in and boost your technical know-how with Bench Boost!

Troubleshooting Tips: Mercury Recovery, High-Concentration Blends, and IC Stability08 Apr 202500:16:07

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Experiencing issues in your prep or analysis? This episode is full of practical advice to keep your data on track.

Learn how to improve mercury recoveries, including best practices for stabilization in different matrices and container types. We also dive into designing high-concentration multi-element blends, highlighting unexpected incompatibilities and how acid concentration impacts stability. Finally, we discuss anion and IC standard preparation, covering pH control, contamination risks, and tips for preventing nitrite degradation and microbial growth.

Technical Glossary Part 3: Speciation, Working Solutions, and Matrix Effects01 Apr 202500:21:14

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In this episode, we wrap up our glossary discussions with a focus on element speciation — why ICP alone can't distinguish oxidation states and how chromatography can help. We also break down working solutions, explaining how to properly dilute stock standards for analysis. Plus, we discuss matrix effects, covering signal suppression, ionization buffers, and why matrix matching is critical for accuracy.

Technical Glossary Part 2: Understanding Calibration, Internal Standards, and Blank Corrections25 Mar 202500:14:12

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In this episode, we continue exploring key terms in elemental analysis, focusing on calibration standards, how they establish accuracy, and why they are essential for reliable results. We also cover internal standards, their role in correcting matrix effects, and best practices for selecting them. Finally, we dive into blank corrections, breaking down calibration blanks, reagent blanks, and method blanks — critical tools for improving data accuracy.

Pittcon 2025 Recap: Industry Connections and Key Takeaways18 Mar 202500:14:35

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Fresh from Pittcon 2025, we’re recapping the biggest moments, key industry insights, and what made ICP Alley a must-visit destination! Hear about our experience connecting with customers, tackling live tech support questions, and catching up with industry partners. Plus, we dive into new trends in sample introduction, instrument developments, and technical challenges analysts are facing today.

Technical Glossary Part 1: Understanding Standards, SI Traceability, and Uncertainty11 Mar 202500:21:06

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In this episode, we unpack fundamental concepts that every ICP analyst should know. Learn what National Metrology Institutes (NMIs) are and why SI traceability is essential for accurate measurements. We also clarify the differences between SRMs, CRMs, RMs, and PCRMs, helping you choose the right standard for your work. Plus, we discuss accuracy vs. precision, measurement uncertainty, and how tolerance impacts your data.

ICP Q&A: Choosing the Right Standards and Fixing High Recoveries04 Mar 202500:14:34

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In this Q&A episode, we answer common questions from ICP analysts, including how to choose between AA and CG product lines for your standards, when certification levels matter, and what documentation differences to expect. We also troubleshoot high recoveries of copper and lead in ICP-OES, exploring possible interferences, calibration curve issues, and internal standard miscalculations. Plus, we break down how internal standard baselines can throw off your results and how to fix them.

ICP Q&A: EPA 200.8, Antimony Stability, and HF Safety Tips25 Feb 202500:13:42

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In this Q&A episode, we answer analyst questions on EPA Method 200.8, including tuning recommendations, chloride interferences, and digestion techniques for wastewater and drinking water analysis. We also tackle antimony stability, comparing HF and tartaric acid stabilization methods, and discuss key strategies for minimizing contamination in ICP-MS. Plus, our team shares critical HF safety tips, including best practices for handling and emergency response. 

Have a question you’d like answered on Bench Boost? Send it our way — we might cover it in a future episode!

ICP Q&A: Sample Prep Fixes, LOD/LOQ Tips, and Contamination Control18 Feb 202500:12:00

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In this Q&A episode, our team answers real-world questions from analysts like you! We discuss strategies for preventing aluminum loss in HF digestions, a listener-submitted method using boric acid to reverse precipitation, and the best ways to calculate limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) in ICP-OES. Plus, we dive into iron contamination risks, common sources in the lab, and tips for improving detection limits. If you’re troubleshooting ICP challenges, this episode is packed with valuable insights!

ICP Alley: Insights from GFS Chemicals Ahead of Pittcon 202511 Feb 202500:19:11

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In the final installment of our ICP Alley series, we feature Cole Hutchinson from GFS Chemicals. Learn how GFS’s ultrapure acids and high-purity reagents help analysts tackle the growing challenges of ultra-low detection limits and contamination. Cole shares insights on minimizing impurities, proper handling techniques, and how GFS’s innovative products ensure precision in ICP analysis. Plus, get a sneak peek at what GFS has planned for Pittcon 2025 and how ICP Alley will be the go-to hub for ICP analysts.

Make ICP Alley your first stop at Pittcon 2025. We'll see you there!

ICP Alley: Preparing for Pittcon 2025 with Glass Expansion04 Feb 202500:21:16

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In this episode, we continue our journey to Pittcon 2025 with a spotlight on Glass Expansion. Join us as Ryan Brennan shares how Glass Expansion has become a trusted leader in sample introduction systems for ICP-MS and ICP-OES. Discover practical tips for preventing signal drift, maintaining your instruments, and choosing the right accessories to optimize your analysis. Plus, learn how ICP Alley will provide a collaborative hub for ICP analysts to connect with experts and enhance their workflows.

Join us next week for a chat with GFS Chemicals!

Back to Basics Part 3: Standards & Solutions07 Oct 202500:11:49

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In this episode of our Back to Basics series, we explore the critical role of tuning solutions, check solutions, and calibration standards in ICP-OES and ICP-MS. Joined by R&D Chemists Liv Forbes & Autumn Phillips and Tech Support Chemist Ashley Jones, we break down why proper calibration and routine checks are essential to maintaining instrument performance and ensuring accurate, reliable data. From wavelength and mass calibration to tuning for sensitivity and minimizing interferences, to building stable, well-matched calibration standards—this conversation covers the practices that keep your results trustworthy.

Whether you’re fine-tuning methods or setting up your lab for long-term success, this episode delivers the knowledge you need to keep your instruments performing at their best.

Tune in and strengthen your fundamentals with Bench Boost.

ICP Alley: A Look into Pittcon 2025 with CEM28 Jan 202500:20:13

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Get ready for a new level of collaboration at Pittcon 2025 with ICP Alley! In this episode, we sit down with Michael Howe (aka Howie) from CEM Corporation to discuss this exciting joint venture between Inorganic Ventures, CEM, Glass Expansion, and GFS Chemicals. Learn how ICP Alley will serve as a one-stop hub for ICP analysts, offering insights from sample prep to analysis. Plus, Howie shares tips on choosing the right acid mix for digestions, preventing contamination, and preparing for ultra-low detection levels. Don’t miss this sneak peek into what’s coming to Boston in March!

More episodes to come with guests from Glass Expansion and GFS Chemicals!

Q&A Session: Troubleshooting ICP Challenges21 Jan 202500:26:39

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In this episode, we answer listener questions about real-world ICP challenges. From setting up effective control charts to managing violent reactions during metal digestions, our team provides actionable solutions. We also explore strategies for digesting complex alloys and ensuring precise measurements for high-concentration samples like nickel, tungsten, and iron. Whether you're troubleshooting digestion setups or refining your calibration methods, this episode offers practical advice to tackle everyday analytical challenges in the lab.

Troubleshooting ICP Washout14 Jan 202500:18:50

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Struggling with washout issues in your ICP analyses? This episode is packed with solutions. We break down why certain elements stick around longer, the best rinse solutions for different challenges, and how to optimize your setup for cleaner results. From tackling HF elements and nitric-sensitive analytes to tips for using ICP TrueRinse, we cover it all. Whether you’re fine-tuning your methods or troubleshooting sticky elements, this episode is your guide to eliminating carryover and boosting accuracy in your lab.

Samples Containing Ru & Os07 Jan 202500:14:56

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This episode focuses on the rare and fascinating element ruthenium and osmium, two members of the platinum group metals. Learn the best methods for dissolving these challenging metals using fusion techniques, how to prevent the formation of volatile tetroxides, and key strategies for maintaining stability in solution. We also explore testing considerations for ICP-OES and ICP-MS, including managing interferences and ensuring accurate results in trace analysis.

Learn more about our sample prep guides.

Samples Containing Fe31 Dec 202400:10:34

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Iron is one of the most common and challenging elements to handle in the lab, both as a key analyte and as a potential contaminant. In this episode, we tackle the nuances of working with iron in the lab. From avoiding contamination in your tools and reagents to selecting the right acid combinations for dissolving metals, alloys, and oxides, we cover it all. Discover how to maintain stability in solution and manage the spectral complexity iron brings to both ICP-OES and ICP-MS.

Learn more about our sample prep guides.

Samples Containing Re24 Dec 202400:08:18

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In this episode, we explore the rare yet versatile element rhenium, used in high-temperature applications like turbine blades and jet engines. Learn how to effectively prepare rhenium samples, including best practices for dissolving metals and handling oxides through fusion techniques. We also cover tips for testing on ICP-OES and ICP-MS, with insights on avoiding interferences from rare earth elements and osmium.

Learn more about our sample prep guides.

Samples Containing Mn17 Dec 202400:12:21

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This episode focuses on manganese, an essential but often overlooked element in sample preparation and ICP analysis. Learn how manganese behaves in various matrices, from metals and alloys to oxides and organics, and discover tips for avoiding contamination during sample prep. We explore effective dissolution techniques using nitric and hydrochloric acids, strategies to stabilize manganese in solution, and how to manage interferences in ICP-OES and ICP-MS testing.

Learn more about our sample prep guides.

Samples Containing W10 Dec 202400:09:26

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This episode explores the challenges and solutions for working with tungsten in sample preparation and ICP analysis. Learn effective techniques for dissolving tungsten metals, alloys, and oxides, including the critical role of HF for stability. We also cover tips for avoiding hydrolysis and preventing tungsten trioxide formation. On the testing side, discover how to manage spectral interferences in ICP-OES and ICP-MS, along with strategies for addressing tungsten's notorious carryover issues.

Learn more about our sample prep guides.

Samples Containing Mo03 Dec 202400:12:31

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This episode unpacks the complexities of preparing and analyzing molybdenum samples across various matrices. From metals and alloys to refractory oxides and biological samples, we explore effective methods for dissolution and stability. Learn about molybdenum’s unique behavior, such as its compatibility with ammonium hydroxide matrices and its interactions with HF. Discover tips for avoiding interferences in ICP-OES and ICP-MS testing, including dealing with complex oxide and chloride interferences.

Learn more about our sample prep guides.

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