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Colorimetric chemistry may seem simple, but getting reliable results takes precision.

In this episode, the team breaks down the fundamentals of colorimetric methods, from basic indicators to more advanced workflows using benchtop spectrometers and discrete analyzers. They compare the pros and cons of each approach, share practical advice for pipetting accuracy, and highlight industries (like environmental, food, and pharma) where these methods are still essential.

Plus, Liv and Ashley share tips on reagent handling, photosensitive reactions, and instrument setup to help labs get the most from their colorimetric testing—whether you're working with pool water or cyanide.

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In this episode, the team dives into palladium sample preparation for a variety of matrices—metals, alloys, oxides, organics, and ores—highlighting the best acid choices and digestion strategies from our sample prep guide.

The team also discusses common challenges when analyzing palladium using ICP-OES and ICP-MS, including isobaric and polyatomic interferences, oxide formation, and how trace organics can destabilize your results.

Need more guidance? The full prep guide is available on our website.

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In this episode, the Inorganic Ventures technical team answers real questions from labs in the field—covering environmental contamination solutions, rare earth stability, acid purity, and practical tips for improving detection limits. It’s an inside look at how small changes in setup and prep can make a big difference in data quality.

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Nickel is common across many sample types, but prepping and testing it isn’t always straightforward.

In this episode, Liv Forbes joins Mike Booth to walk through Inorganic Ventures’ sample preparation strategies for nickel, covering dissolution tips for metals, alloys, oxides, ores, and organic matrices. They also dig into the challenges of ICP-MS analysis, including isobaric and polyatomic interferences, and share how to reduce contamination risks during sample handling.

For labs working with nickel in alloys, catalysts, or environmental samples, this one’s packed with practical advice you can apply right away.

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This week, we’re introducing a new method developed at Inorganic Ventures for analyzing oil samples using aqueous metal standards in a hybrid organic-aqueous solvent matrix—a solution that brings stability, cleaner data, and wider element compatibility to wear metals testing.

Madeline Gozzi joins Mike to explain how this method was designed to align with ASTM 5185 and 6595, and how our proprietary solvent is improving lab workflows with better solubility, built-in internal standards, and cleaner sulfur analysis. They also break down real-world validation efforts, including testing with NIST SRMs, dirty motor oil, and even biodiesel feedstocks.

The method is now available for beta testing. Tune in to learn more.

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Iridium is one of the most chemically stubborn—and analytically important—precious metals. In this episode, we walk through key methods for getting iridium metal, oxides, and alloys into solution, including aqua regia, high-temperature chlorination, and fusion techniques. We also cover ICP-OES and ICP-MS testing considerations, including line selection, interference management, and typical detection limits.

The team also shares the story behind the development of IV’s SI-traceable Iridium PCRM, created to address the lack of a NIST SRM and reduce uncertainty for labs that depend on high-purity standards.

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We’re back with a preview of our 10th Annual ICP Conference, taking place October 14–16, 2025, at Inorganic Ventures.

In this episode, you’ll hear what’s new this year—including hands-on lab stations, data analysis workshops, and expert talks on sample prep, contamination control, and method validation. We also share attendee feedback from past events, a look at the upcoming poster session, and a few social highlights you won’t want to miss.

🎟️ Registration is open! Space is limited, so save your spot now!

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In this episode, the team answers three timely tech support questions from the lab. First, we cover palladium stability in nitric acid and what to watch for when mixing it with elements like silver or antimony. Then, we walk through a quick, effective digestion method for zeolites, developed by Dr. Paul Gaines and featured in our elemental analysis guide. Finally, we share an update on our new discrete analyzer reagents — developed in partnership with Seal Analytical — and how they can be used with other instrument brands.

Want to learn more about our ready-to-use reagents? Check out the method chemistry one-sheets on our website or contact our team for help finding the right solution for your analyzer. Learn more.