Elemental Analysis Laboratory

The Elemental Analysis Laboratory at Texas A&M University is a component of the Department of Chemistry’s Center for Chemical Characterization and Analysis. The laboratory provides research support in the area of elemental and trace analysis, as well as, service analyses for Texas A&M researchers, other academic and government agencies and private industry. Our lab is distinguished in that we feature fast neutron activation analysis (FNAA) capabilities in addition to thermal instrumental neutron activation (INAA) using the University’s Nuclear Science Center 1 MW TRIGA research reactor. In addition, the laboratory provides training and access to a state-of-the-art inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS). The ICP-MS has been fitted with both conventional sample introduction hardware for solution work, as well as, a 213 nm laser ablation system for studying solids and surfaces. The laboratory is extensively used to benefit a wide variety of research programs, reporting some 50,000 measurements completed each operational year.

If you’re research depends on knowing whether or not your sample contains certain elements or how much it contains, then we’re here to help.

The Elemental Analysis Laboratory specializes in two kinds of neutron activation analysis (NAA).

• Fast neutron activation analysis (FNAA)
• Thermal instrumental neutron activation (INAA)

Our Laboratory provides training and access to use inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) in your own research.
The ICP-MS has been fitted with both:

• Liquid autosampler for solution analysis
• 213-nm laser ablation module for solids/surface analysis