The Future of Analytical Instrumentation

Oral Presentation

Prepared by D. Kennedy
Phenomenex, 1583A Redford Drive, Palm Springs, CA, 92264, United States


Contact Information: davidkennedyassociates@msn.com; 760-992-0655


ABSTRACT

The past 50 years have witnessed enormous advances in the speed, sensitivity and capability of analytical instrumentation. This has lead to corresponding advances in the scope and efficacy of environmental monitoring. Given this history, what may we expect the future to bring?

In this talk we will explore some current developmental trends in analytical instrumentation with an eye toward how these might impact the future of environmental monitoring. This will lead, in turn, to the consideration of how such improved monitoring could enhance the health of human beings and the quality of our environment. However, we will also consider the limitations of improvements in instrumentation: When we finally obtain the ability to monitor everything, everywhere, in real-time, at the molecular level will this fundamentally increase our environmental understanding or will it simply overwhelm us with data? We will offer a cautiously optimistic view of this brave new world, along with a modest proposal to help assure that we derive the greatest possible benefit from the inevitable advance of analytical instrumentation.