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PUC鈥檚 department of chemistry is grateful to two generous donors who helped the department acquire a microwave plasma atomic emission spectrometer (MPAES). The MPAES can measure the amount of over 60 elements in many types of samples, and is sensitive enough to detect one part in a billion. So, what does this mean in real life?

鈥淎tomic spectroscopy is often used to evaluate heavy metals, such as lead and mercury in environmental samples like soil and water,鈥� explains Dr. Robert Wilson, associate professor of chemistry. 鈥淚t is also used to determine if lead is in the paint in children鈥檚 toys or measure mineral content in food.鈥�

Wilson also says the software for the MPAES is very easy to understand and use, which means students with little to no lab experience will be able to operate a state-of-the-art instrument on their own, offering them valuable independence in the lab.

鈥淭he measurement process is very fast,鈥� says Wilson. 鈥淚t only takes about one minute per sample, and several elements can be measured simultaneously.鈥�

It鈥檚 not just the chemists who can benefit from this equipment; Dr. Kent Davis, chair of the department, foresees partnerships with other scientists, too.

鈥淲e aren鈥檛 the only ones who see a use for the MPAES,鈥� he says. 鈥淏iologists, environmentalists, and others can utilize the machine for measuring soil, water, and other samples to evaluate for contamination鈥� Davis said.

PUC鈥檚 department of biology is interested in using the MPAES to measure soil samples for boron content, and their environmental studies majors will find it a useful piece of equipment, as well.

鈥淥ther colleges similar in size to PUC may have atomic absorption instruments, rather than an MPAES,鈥� says Wilson. 鈥淭hese instruments are not as sensitive and do not offer the range of elements an emission-based technique does. PUC is fortunate to have equipment like this in its labs.鈥�

For more information about chemistry at PUC, visit or or call (800) 862-7080 to talk with an enrollment counselor.