Collections
The future of analytical chemistry
We’re looking ahead to the future of analytical chemistry, from monitoring the planet from satellites, diagnosing cancer quickly and easily from small blood samples, to where the discipline itself is heading. And with a century and half passing since the Society of Public Analysts was founded, what does the future hold for this important role?
How satellite remote sensing is enhancing our understanding of Earth
Instruments in space have studied the planet’s atmosphere and surface, and are now being joined by powerful new ones, finds Andy Extance
Blood biopsies for cancer
Testing small amounts of blood for the presence of disease markers could revolutionise how we detect cancer. Clare Sansom reports
Analysing a chemist’s wish-list
Analytical techniques have come a long way, but what does the future hold? Rachel Brazil asks the experts what they’d like to see
Opinion
Why we need public analysts
As the Association of Public Analysts winds up, Duncan Campbell reflects on the continued importance of the profession
Opinion
Analytical chemistry is never far from the frontiers of science
New and better tools are pushing back boundaries and changing the world
ResearchAI can tell Scottish and American whiskies apart
Machine-learning method identifies prominent aromas
NewsHigh levels of PFAS found in smartwatch wristbands
Extractable compounds provide opportunity for significant skin exposure
OpinionSydney Young and his evaporative fractionator
Developments in distillation find us in good spirits
ResearchIsotope analysis reveals ‘mundane’ origins of remarkable dinosaur fossil site
Collapsing burrows, not volcanoes, killed the dinosaurs in China’s Yixian Formation
ResearchFirst detected 40 years ago, a byproduct in chloraminated drinking water has finally been identified
Researchers call for urgent investigation into the chloronitramide anion’s toxicity
OpinionLangley’s bolometer and the importance of ‘stamp collecting’
Mapping a spectrum of developments
NewsDirty secret of mysterious ‘tar balls’ washed up on Sydney’s shores uncovered
Scientists unite to investigate objects that shut down beaches in New South Wales
ResearchMicrocrystal electron diffraction promises a revolution in study of proteins, small molecules
Technique offers a way to get around problems with hard-to-crystallise proteins, already scoring impressive successes with a Parkinson’s protein
ResearchFailings in response to East Palestine train derailment compounded human and environmental impact
Study makes recommendations to better protect humans and the environment in the event of a future chemical incident
OpinionSmart sensors can help deliver India’s net zero targets
Metal oxide–polymer composites offer a nanotech sensing solution
ResearchNew spectroscopy method maps out water’s hydrogen-bonded network
Technique can be used to study other liquids and amorphous materials
WebinarBroadband benchtop NMR spectroscopy: it’s more than just proton and carbon
Join us for a demonstration of how benchtop NMR can be used to study elements beyond hydrogen and carbon
WebinarChemisTwin: Cloud-based analysis of NMR and IR spectra
Discover how analytical software can support your workflow
WebinarThe science and promise of liquid biopsies: improving cancer treatment
Learn how liquid biopsies are being used to identify cancer and improve patient outcomes
ResearchBanned pigments found in tattoo inks sold in the EU
Nine out of 10 green and blue inks analysed violate Reach regulations
ResearchNanopore sequencing set to transform our understanding of proteins
Rapid sequencing technique can not only deal with proteins hundreds of amino acids long but can detect modifications
ResearchHydrogen dimers finally detected at room temperature
Researchers revisit spectrum of fragile dimer with high-sensitivity spectroscopy
OpinionScience can make doping tests more trustworthy
Contamination cases at the Olympics and beyond highlight the need for minimum reporting thresholds for drug testing in sport
ResearchReading into the dangers of poison paint in Victorian-era books
Brightly coloured fabric covers hide poisonous dye legacy
ResearchStonehenge Altar stone likely came from Scotland, not Wales
Mineral analysis matches sandstones from over 750km away
NewsAward-winning chemist threatens to sue critic
Tensions flare in latest dispute over spherical nucleic acid technology