Spectrometry sounds like a complicated thing, a scientific process reserved solely for complex processes that occur in labs and are purely theoretical in nature. The truth is a little more complex than that, however, and while the process itself is challenging to achieve, spectrometry has an extensive range of applications that are relevant to the average life.
Using a spectrometer, researchers can conduct an analytical evaluation of a sample, determining the interactions between matter and light, as well as identifying the measurements between wavelengths and radiation intensity. This makes it an ideal methodology for the study of a wide range of products, areas and phenomena. Here are just a few of the most important that are particularly valuable for daily life.
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Skincare
Over recent years, more and more people have become interested in establishing a comprehensive skincare routine for themselves. Many see it as a way to get some much-needed pampering during a busy day. For this reason, the market has continued to expand over time, incorporating a wider variety of products fit for an ever-growing number of possible skin concerns and beauty goals.
The skin is the human body’s largest organ, providing a natural barrier against microorganisms and bacteria while at the same time allowing electrolytes to flow between the cells. For this reason, all skincare products must be carefully and meticulously tested before reaching a retail aisle. Doing so ensures they don’t cause adverse reactions.
Several research centres have partnered with brands and companies in order to ensure buyers get the best products available on the market. The use of mass spectrometry has been used to analyze the metabolism, absorption and properties of topical products. It allows scientists to have a better understanding of what should be changed or improved.
Environmental measures
Spectrometry can be used to monitor the amount of oxygen present in marine and freshwater environments. Dissolved oxygen signifies what is available in water and which is used to support the adequate breathing of marine organisms. Most marine life depends on it, and if the levels are dwindling, the ecosystem is severely impacted. Stress, lower numbers, and even extinction are all possible.
Several factors determine the oxygen content, among them salinity, temperature and atmospheric pressure. The presence of pollutants is also noteworthy, showing that dissolved oxygen is also an accurate indicator of water quality. Through the use of spectrometers, scientists can determine if a particular ecosystem is healthy, as well as whether the current water management practices are adequate or not.
And that’s not all, as the process can be used to test drinking water safety, run highly accurate assessments of soil contamination, monitor carbon pollution levels and carry out a comprehensive analysis of the contamination with heavy metals.
Medical uses
It’s only natural that spectrometry could be used in the medical field. However, its sheer range of possible use cases is nothing short of impressive, showing that the technology has several applications that are yet to be discovered. For instance, clinical laboratories can employ spectrometry as part of newborn screening, having the potential to help millions of newborns get an accurate diagnosis. In many cases, health complaints are thoroughly curable, but early detection and intervention are crucial for a positive outcome.
The process is also used to diagnose different metabolism deficiencies, carry out toxicology tests and determine the presence of enzymes and biomarkers. Spectrometry can recognize the existence of chronic illnesses. It detects malignant tissue and helps conduct more sensitive testing by getting samples without damaging the surrounding areas and organs.
Quality control
The products you buy from a shop go through a careful quality control process that is used to establish whether or not they’re safe for consumption and use. When it comes to food and groceries, this is a fundamental step that prevents the development and propagation of foodborne illnesses by detecting pathogens and eliminating products that are unfit for consumption.
The process is not yet perfect, and sometimes inadequate items slip through as well, causing illness among members of the general public. The most vulnerable categories are the very young, older adults, pregnant women and those dealing with a chronic disease. Using spectrometry in this industry sector can help significantly improve quality control. Apart from determining any dangers associated with a food item, a spectrometer will also be able to define the complete concentration of micro and macronutrients, as well as the number of active compounds.
This could signify the beginning of a more careful approach to food, during which people can see the hard facts pertaining to the nutritional value of a particular product.
Law enforcement
The law requires one of the highest amounts of certainty among all sectors, given that justice and societal order depend on it. This is what makes spectrometry the best solution in this case as well, due to its ability to identify minute details. Here too, the process enjoys a wide range of possible use cases. Equipment using the technology is used as part of detector sensors in airports. Border security checks use it to identify the possible presence of illicit substances or other hazardous items, such as explosives.
It can be used to determine substance abuse in individuals suspected of driving under the influence and causing traffic collisions. Mass spectrometry can easily detect the presence of steroids in an individual’s system, an essential aspect of maintaining fairness among athletes. In the event of a crime, a suspect’s traces can be identified using this technology, even if they’re barely traceable. For example, clothing items can be used as part of search and rescue proceedings, recovery investigations and as evidence in criminal cases.
Spectrometry can sound like a mouthful, but it is a process with actual physical results. It is crucial for the emergence and well-functioning of many different systems, as well as for food safety, the justice system and cosmetics. This alone shows that its wide range of applications can be employed in virtually any possible sector, making spectrometry an indispensable technological development that’ll continue to have a considerable influence on daily life.
