Troubleshooting Tips: Tune Solutions in Base and Trace Chloride in Silver Blends
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.
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14:13
Troubleshooting Tips: Mercury Recovery, High-Concentration Blends, and IC 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.
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16:07
Technical Glossary Part 3: Speciation, Working Solutions, and Matrix Effects
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.
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21:14
Technical Glossary Part 2: Understanding Calibration, Internal Standards, and Blank Corrections
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.
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14:12
Pittcon 2025 Recap: Industry Connections and Key Takeaways
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.
Join our host and Inorganic Ventures Technical Director, Mike Booth, as he sparks insightful conversations with our panel of experts in Bench Boost, your go-to podcast for analytical chemistry enthusiasts. Together, they explore the realm of ICP, sharing tips and tricks and diving deep into all things analytical chemistry.
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