In this article, the basic principles, advantages, and limitations of different optical techniques for obtaining seed vigor estimates are introduced and reviewed, and the key technology of non-destructive optical detection of single seeds will be discussed.

Researchers have developed a novel three-step hybrid variable selection strategy, SiPLS-RF(VIM)-IMIV, to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of soil potassium measurement using near-infrared spectroscopy, offering significant advancements for precision agriculture and real-time soil monitoring.

A recent study from China explored a new, non-destructive method combining terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) and machine learning to accurately classify wheat gluten strength.

In this study, laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) was applied in conjunction with principal component analysis (PCA) to identify and classify flower species.

Researchers from the University of Liege have demonstrated the potential of surface-enhanced transmission Raman spectroscopy (SETRS) for detecting impurities in pharmaceuticals. The study highlights SETRS’s superior sensitivity, precision, and efficiency in quantifying toxic impurities like 4-aminophenol (4-AP), offering a promising alternative to traditional methods.

A recent study used Fourier transform mid-infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and machine learning (ML) algorithms to understand the mineral content in camel’s milk.

A recent study explored how polymer-based tea bags contribute to the release of microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPL).

Researchers have developed a rapid, reagent-free method to estimate the saponification value (SV) of edible oils using handheld Raman spectroscopy. This innovative approach simplifies oil quality testing, cutting time and costs while enhancing accuracy and portability.

We critically review the qualification and validation approaches in the World Health Organization Technical Report Series (WHO TRS) 1019 Annex 3 and its applicability to spectrometer systems.

Spectroscopy recently asked three analytical scientists in the industry and in academia to share how mentorship has impacted their careers.

Spectroscopy sat down with Benjamin Manard, senior R&D staff and group leader for chemical and isotopic mass spectrometry at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, to discuss his career in the National Laboratory system, and his advice for scientists interested in following a similar path.

It has occurred to me that, in the 10+ years I have been writing about molecular vibrations, I have never introduced my readers to its basic theory! I will rectify that now. Some of this is new material, and some will be review. Either way, it is important that all this material be covered in one place.

Seeking opportunities for career growth is important for early-career scientists to explore new skills, connect with mentors, and gain insights into the field. Professional societies and educational programs can be invaluable resources, providing mentorship, training, and networking opportunities that can accelerate career success in spectroscopy.

Because there is a different Raman signature for each of the polymorphs as well as the contaminants, Raman microscopy is an ideal tool for analyzing the structure of these materials as well as identifying possible contaminants that would also interfere with performance.