Bench Boost by Inorganic Ventures

Send us a textIn 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.

Send us a textIn 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.

Send us a textThis 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.

Send us a textIn 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.

Send us a textIn 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.

Send us a textExperiencing 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.

Send us a textIn 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.

Send us a textIn 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.

Send us a textFresh 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.

Send us a textIn 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.

Send us a textIn 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.

Send us a textIn 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!

Send us a textIn 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!

Send us a textIn 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!

Send us a textIn 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!

Send us a textGet 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!

Send us a textIn 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.

Send us a textStruggling 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.

Send us a textThis 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.

Send us a textIron 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.

Send us a textIn 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.

Send us a textThis 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.

Send us a textThis 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.

Send us a textThis 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.

Send us a textThis episode dives into the challenges and nuances of preparing and analyzing chromium samples. From understanding the differences between chromium's oxidation states to effective methods for dissolving metals, oxides, and ores, we cover it all. Learn why chromium resists corrosion, how to avoid refractory oxides in organic matrices, and tips for testing Cr using alternative techniques like ion chromatography and UV-Vis. Whether you're tackling sample prep or troubleshooting interferences in ICP analysis, this episode is packed with practical insights to ensure accuracy and reliability in your results.Learn more about our sample prep guides.

Send us a textThis episode focuses on the intricacies of preparing and analyzing samples containing niobium and tantalum, two elements with similar geochemistry and behavior. Learn effective methods for dissolving metals, alloys, and oxides using techniques such as HF stabilization and fusion methods, while addressing challenges like signal quenching and purity issues. Discover best practices for ICP-OES and ICP-MS testing, including how to manage interferences from tungsten and rare earth oxides. This episode is packed with actionable insights for anyone working with these unique and often tricky elements.Learn more about our sample prep guides.

Send us a textIn this episode, we explore the versatile and "colorful" chemistry of vanadium in sample preparation and analysis. Learn about effective methods for dissolving vanadium metals, alloys, and oxides, including tips on handling its various oxidation states. Discover practical advice for working with vanadium in different matrices, stability insights, and unique color-change indicators that can help you assess sample prep success. With vanadium being straightforward to test on ICP-OES and ICP-MS, this episode highlights everything you need to achieve reliable results with this stable element.Learn more about our sample prep guides.

Send us a textThis episode explores best practices for preparing and analyzing samples containing zirconium and hafnium. Discover the unique challenges these "geochemical twins" present, from handling metals and oxides with HF to using sodium carbonate and tetraborate fusions. Learn how to maintain stability in solution and avoid common ICP interferences, especially when working with trace elements. Perfect for labs tackling complex matrices, this episode offers essential insights for reliable results in zirconium and hafnium analysis.Learn more about our sample prep guides.

Send us a textThis episode covers essential methods for handling titanium in sample prep and analysis, from dissolving titanium alloys and oxides to stabilizing it in solution. Explore the unique challenges of working with titanium, including the need for careful HF handling and tips for preventing hydrolysis. Discover effective techniques for ICP-OES and ICP-MS testing, along with ways to navigate common interferences from elements like scandium and vanadium. This guide will help labs ensure accuracy and stability in titanium analysis, making it a valuable resource for both novice and experienced analysts.Learn more about our sample prep guides.

Send us a textThis episode delves into the complexities of preparing and analyzing samples containing thorium and uranium. Learn how to effectively dissolve metal and oxide samples and explore stability challenges related to HF sensitivity and acid compatibility. We also cover essential ICP-OES and ICP-MS testing strategies, including handling uranium isotopes and understanding the nuances of depleted versus natural uranium sources. Whether you're ensuring accurate results in ICP analysis or navigating radioactive materials, this episode provides valuable insights to enhance your lab's capabilities.Learn more about our sample prep guides.

Send us a textIn this episode, our experts tackle the complexities of working with rare earth elements, from sample prep to interference correction. Listen as they explore methods for dissolving rare earth samples and maintaining stability in solution. The team also delves into the challenges of analyzing rare earths using ICP-OES and ICP-MS, including tips for mitigating oxide interferences and selecting optimal isotopes. Perfect for those dealing with high-purity rare earth samples or navigating their rich spectra, this episode is packed with essential insights for accurate analysis.Learn more about our sample prep guides.

Send us a textIn this episode, we focus on scandium, a key element used frequently as an internal standard in ICP analysis. The team dives into important considerations for keeping scandium stable in solution and avoiding HF sensitivity. They also discuss testing strategies using both ICP-OES and ICP-MS, including how to manage potential spectral interferences and optimize your setup for accurate results. Whether you work with scandium regularly or are looking to fine-tune your techniques, this episode offers essential insights to help you succeed in the lab.Learn more about our sample prep guides.

Send us a textThis week, the team discusses the preparation and analysis of samples containing strontium and barium. Discover the similarities between these elements and calcium, from solubility tips to handling HF sensitivity and sulfate contamination risks. The team also provides insights into testing with ICP-OES and ICP-MS, highlighting key interferences to watch for and ways to improve detection limits. Learn more about our sample prep guides.

Send us a textIn this episode of Bench Boost, we explore the best practices for preparing and analyzing samples containing Calcium. From solubility tips to handling trace levels, this episode covers everything you need to know to keep calcium stable in solution and ensure reliable results. We also dive into testing techniques, with insights on using ICP-OES and ICP-MS for calcium detection, including dealing with interferences and optimizing detection limits. Perfect for labs looking to refine their calcium analysis methods.Learn more about our sample prep guides.

Send us a textMike Booth is back with guests Ashley Jones, Liv Forbes, and Autumn Phillips, as they walk you through the critical aspects of preparing magnesium samples—whether you're dealing with metals, oxides, or complex minerals like dolomite. Learn how to avoid common pitfalls such as vigorous reactions during dissolution, potential contamination, and handling HF in your processes. The team also discusses the minimal interferences magnesium faces in both ICP-OES and ICP-MS, making it an easier element to manage in the lab. Perfect for analysts looking to refine their techniques and ensure stable, reliable results in magnesium analysis.Learn more about our sample prep guides. 

Send us a textHost Mike Booth, along with Tech Support Chemist Ashley Jones and R&D Chemists Liv Forbes and Autumn Phillips, discuss the straightforward yet crucial steps to ensure beryllium remains stable in solution. Learn about the acids and methods best suited for different beryllium sample types, how to prevent hydrolyzation, and the key considerations for testing beryllium using ICP-OES and ICP-MS. Whether you're new to working with beryllium or looking to refine your approach, this episode offers valuable insights for achieving reliable results.

Send us a textIn this episode of Bench Boost, we focus on the essential techniques for preparing samples containing group 1 elements: lithium, sodium, potassium, rubidium, and cesium. Host Mike Booth is joined by Tech Support Chemist Ashley Jones and R&D Chemists Liv Forbes and Autumn Phillips to discuss the specific challenges these elements pose. From handling reactive metals to dealing with contamination risks, our experts share practical tips to ensure accurate ICP analyses. Discover the best practices for working with different sample types, managing chemical compatibility, and mitigating interferences, all while achieving reliable, clean results in your lab.

Send us a Text Message.This week on Bench Boost, we wrap up our conversation with CEM Corporation's Macy Harris and Elaine Hasty. The focus is on overcoming two major hurdles in microwave digestion: contamination and method development. Macy and Elaine provide actionable advice on how to minimize contamination in the lab and select the right acid chemistry for your samples. They also discuss how CEM's microwave technology has helped labs improve throughput and achieve lower detection limits. Whether you're new to microwave digestion or looking to optimize your process, this episode offers essential guidance from industry experts.

Send us a Text Message.This week on Bench Boost, Mike is joined by Macy Harris and Elaine Hasty from CEM Corporation to discuss the benefits of microwave digestion technology. Discover how switching from traditional hot block digestion to microwave can save time, increase consistency, and even eliminate the need for hazardous chemicals like perchloric acid in many cases. Macy and Elaine also walk us through CEM's latest microwave digesters and offer tips on choosing the right system for your lab's needs. Don't miss this insightful conversation packed with tips for optimizing your sample preparation process.

Send us a Text Message.Our experts are back this week to tackle more of your pressing technical questions. They discuss key topics such as extending the shelf life of your CRMs, identifying and correcting ICP-MS interferences in the challenging mass range of 60-130, and best practices for analyzing bromide on ICP. From understanding the effects of transpiration on your solutions to leveraging isotopic abundance tables for interference management, this episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone working in trace analysis.

Send us a Text Message.This week, we're answering some of the most frequently asked questions in the lab. Our R&D chemists, Autumn Phillips and Madeline Gozzi, along with production manager Joey Burns, offer their insights on the best practices for lithium analysis using ICP-OES and ICP-MS. Discover how to handle spectral interferences, the role of ionization buffers, and why tuning your ICP-MS is crucial for accurate results. Plus, learn how to verify the cleanliness of your DI water and avoid contamination from unexpected sources.

Send us a Text Message.In this episode, the team dives into the analytical challenges faced by those working with battery materials, a rapidly growing and complex field. Guest Tyler Farnsworth, PhD, introduces MERGE Chemistry, a division of IV Labs, and shares insights on the company's work in mitigating hydrogen outgassing and improving plating dynamics in long-duration energy storage batteries.Join us for this engaging and informative episode to gain a deeper understanding of the current challenges and advancements in battery material analysis. 

Send us a Text Message.Tune in to learn about the challenges and solutions when mixing stock blends, the importance of proper storage and handling of reagents for discrete analyzers, and tips for maintaining the stability of combined standards. The team also discusses common issues related to nitrite and nitrate in solutions, offering practical advice on pH adjustments and the best practices for ensuring accurate results.

Send us a Text Message.This week, the team tackles more frequently asked questions about IC. Learn best practices for IC method development, including identifying analytes, selecting the right columns and eluents, and optimizing run conditions. Discover how to determine the best eluent concentration for accurate measurements, and explore strategies to achieve low detection levels for sample analysis.Stay tuned for next week's episode featuring MERGE Chemistry, where we'll discuss the analytical challenges of measuring trace contaminants in battery materials.

Send us a Text Message.Dive into the basics of Ion Chromatography (IC) and discover its diverse applications, from environmental testing to pharmaceuticals and food & beverage industries. The team addresses common questions, including how to resolve interferences in IC analysis. They share insights on optimizing eluent concentrations, managing column temperatures, and maintaining clean systems to avoid contamination.This episode is packed with practical tips and expert advice to help you master IC. Join us next week as we continue our deep dive into IC FAQs.

Send us a Text Message.Host Mike Booth, continues the engaging conversation with Ashley Jones, Autumn Phillips, and Joey Burns as they address more of the most frequently asked technical support questions.In this episode, the team dives into the topic of transpiration and the benefits of TCT (transpiration control technology) bags for maintaining the integrity of your standards. They also discuss best practices for using your standards, including the debate between preparing by weight versus volume, and share tips for effective sample preparation, especially when dealing with challenging materials like zeolites.For more ICP education, try out our virtual learning academy, IV Ignite.

Send us a Text Message.In this episode, host Mike Booth, Technical Director at Inorganic Ventures, is joined by our knowledgeable team: Ashley Jones, Autumn Phillips, and Joey Burns. Together, they tackle some of the most frequently asked technical support questions about ICP sample preparation and analytical science.Discover solutions to common challenges with arsenic and mercury, learn about the impact of oxidation states on ICP analysis, and get insights into working with natural abundance versus depleted uranium in standards. Join us next week for part 2 as we continue the conversation with more FAQs and practical advice!

Send us a Text Message.Welcome to a brand-new season of Bench Boost! This season, we're thrilled to feature some special guests and answer all of your burning questions. First up, we present a special three-part interview series with Robert Thomas, a renowned expert with over four decades of experience in the field. Rob has written over 100 technical publications, a comprehensive 14-part tutorial series on ICP-MS, and is the editor of the Atomic Perspectives (AP) column in Spectroscopy magazine. He has also authored six textbooks, with his latest, "Practical Guide to ICP-MS and Other Atomic Spectroscopy Techniques: A Tutorial for Beginners," published in October 2023.In the final interview, Rob talks about his work with the ACS Committee on Analytical Reagents and his editorial contributions to Spectroscopy Magazine. We delve into his collaborative efforts and ongoing projects, shedding light on his significant impact on the field of analytical chemistry and science publishing.

Send us a Text Message.This season, we're thrilled to feature some special guests and answer all of your burning questions. First up, we present a special three-part interview series with Robert Thomas, a renowned expert with over four decades of experience in the field. Rob has written over 100 technical publications, a comprehensive 14-part tutorial series on ICP-MS, and is the editor of the Atomic Perspectives (AP) column in Spectroscopy magazine. He has also authored six textbooks, with his latest, "Practical Guide to ICP-MS and Other Atomic Spectroscopy Techniques: A Tutorial for Beginners," published in October 2023.In the second episode, Mike & Rob discuss the unique challenges faced by spectroscopists working with pharmaceutical and cannabis samples. Rob shares his insights on the specific issues encountered in these industries and offers practical solutions for overcoming these hurdles.

Send us a Text Message.Welcome to a brand-new season of Bench Boost! This season, we're thrilled to feature some special guests and answer all of your burning questions. First up, we present a special three-part interview series with Robert Thomas, a renowned expert with over four decades of experience in the field. Rob has written over 100 technical publications, a comprehensive 14-part tutorial series on ICP-MS, and is the editor of the Atomic Perspectives (AP) column in Spectroscopy magazine. He has also authored six textbooks, with his latest, "Practical Guide to ICP-MS and Other Atomic Spectroscopy Techniques: A Tutorial for Beginners," published in October 2023.Join us in the first episode as we sit down with Rob Thomas to explore his illustrious career in atomic and mass spectroscopy. Rob shares his journey, from his early days in the field to becoming a leading voice in the industry. We'll also discuss the origins of his latest textbook and his motivation behind writing it.

Join our host, Mike Booth, and the team as they navigate through the chapters of our comprehensive Trace Analysis Guide, available on our website, to explore the crucial principles of traceability. From understanding calibration techniques to mastering measurement uncertainty, each episode brings you insights from industry experts and practical tips to enhance your analytical skills.Tune in weekly as we dissect the complexities of trace analysis, chapter by chapter. For more on-demand learning, explore our new virtual ICP academy, IV Ignite, for video courses, downloadable resources, community forums, and so much more.