Environmental testing requires even the most introverted of scientists to leave the laboratory ‘lair’ and get their hands dirty from time to time. Going onsite and performing extensive analysis is an important part of the environmental science workload. This is why it is imperative that scientists are using the latest innovations to support their research. In this month’s LabTips discover cutting-edge portable technologies for environmental sciences.
Up to one third the size and half the power consumption, portable GC-MS instruments can provide compound identification to an impressive range of gases, liquids, vapors, and solids. Whether the user is analyzing soil samples or in extreme environments, these durable instruments can take environmental, petrochemical, food and forensic science research to the next level.
Look for models that have rapid analysis capabilities under 3 min, heating and cooling capabilities, about 15 samples per hour, rechargeable batteries, and antivibration bases.
The portable Raman spectrometer analyzes a large range of samples including complex pharmaceutical drugs, forensic samples, and complex environmental compounds. By collecting light emitted from a sample after targeted with a laser, the resulting spectrum allows researchers to rapidly identify the sample.
They are differentiated by being able to identify substances through packing and safety material. Environmental scientists can collect samples of volatile and dangerous substances and analyze them safely in the field. Key considerations for portable Raman spectrometers include spectral range and resolution, size of the spectral library, and size of the device. Top picks for a portable Raman spectrometer are the Mira M-1 and i-Raman.
Collecting samples for pH measurement and bringing them back to the lab requires added time and effort. In addition to added complexity, conventional pH testing adds multiple points of human error and contamination of samples. By incorporating a portable pH meter into your environmental research tool kit, researchers can obtain rapid pH data while limiting error and added workload.
Consider models with significant measurement capabilities and the ability to measure additional parameters like mV, EC, salinity, resistance, and TDS. Top picks for portable pH Meters are the FiveGo F2, Metrohm 913, and Waterproof Portable pH/Temperature Meter.
XRD analysis is a great technology to find the molecular structure of crystalline material by diffracting x-rays through the sample.
Portable XRD instruments enable environmental researchers the ability to analyze crystalline samples in the field. A top pick for XRD instrumentation is the mXRD.
XRF analyzers use high-energy x-rays to excite fluorescent radiation from a sample for quantitative or elemental analysis. An advantage of environmental researchers using XRF analyzers is that there is no need for sample prep, the material can be placed in the beam. This non-destructive technique is further enhanced when made portable. A top pick for XRF analyzers is xSORT Handheld XRF Analyzer.
Chris Cicinelli is the Associate Editor for Labcompare.