EKU Department of Chemistry

Research Summary

Dr. Vance’s research interests involve the determination of trace elements in environmental, waste, biological, and forensic samples. The two methods currently used for these studies are X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). XRF is commonly used to characterize the elemental composition of forensic samples such as glass, paint chips, or cosmetics. The department has a new Jordan Valley EDX 6600 XRF instrument to conduct these studies. A collaborative arrangement with the University of Kentucky Center for Applied Energy Research lets students use the VG PlasmaQuad3 ICP-MS at that facility for projects.

One project currently in progress involves the elemental characterization of marijuana. The trace element patterns may be used to locate the geographical source of the plant. The ICP-MS can also be used to determine isotope ratios for elements. One forensic application of isotope ratio determination is in the identifying the source of lead used in bullets that might be found as part of a crime scene. Isotope ratio determinations can also be useful in nutrition studies that use stable isotope as tracers.

Selected Publications

Coming Soon!

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Research Summary Dr. Vance’s research interests involve the determination of trace elements in environmental, waste, biological, and forensic samples. The two methods currently used for these studies are X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). XRF is commonly used to characterize the elemental composition of forensic samples such as glass, paint chips, or cosmetics. The department has a new Jordan Valley EDX 6600 XRF instrument to conduct these studies. A collaborative arrangement with the University of Kentucky Center for Applied Energy Research lets students use the VG PlasmaQuad3 ICP-MS at that facility for projects. One project currently in progress involves the elemental characterization of marijuana. The trace element patterns may be used to locate the geographical source of the plant. The ICP-MS can also be used to determine isotope ratios for elements. One forensic application of isotope ratio determination is in the identifying the source of lead used in bullets that might be found as part of a crime scene. Isotope ratio determinations can also be useful in nutrition studies that use stable isotope as tracers. Selected Publications Coming Soon!			Education / Appointments B.A., M.A.T. Chemistry, Spalding College Ph.D. 1986, Analytical Chemistry, University of Kentucky Research Interests Analytical Forensic Science Trace Analysis ICP-MS Nuclear Chemistry Student Advising Forensic Science