New and improved methods of characterization

During the next few years, scientists will devise new and improved methods of characterizing monomolecular assemblies. A great deal needs to be learned about the ordering of monolayers, and techniques such as scanning tunneling microscopy may provide some of the answers. 

Finally, new methodologies are likely to lead the way in our exploration of chemically mediated interactions at surfaces. New and improved methods for detection and quantification of signals in situ are needed, as are development of in situ bioassays and enhanced molecular methods for characterizing bacterial communities. 

Development of new types of nanofillers used as reinforcement in nanocomposites entails necessity of introducing and improving methods of nanocomposites characterization. Insight into mechanisms of forming nanocomposite and its molecular... 

In general, gas chromatography will undoubtedly continue to be the method of choice for characterization of light hydrocarbon materials. New and improved detection devices and techniques, such as chemiluminescence, atomic emission, and mass spectroscopy, will enhance selectivity, detection limits, and analytical productivity. Laboratory automation through autosampling, computer control, and data handling will provide improved precision and productivity, as well as simplified method operation. 

The revived interest in this area led to new efforts for improved methods of synthesis for pure alkylidene trialkyls (ylides), for the detection and possible characterization of a pentaalkylphosphorane species, and for a better understanding of the state of structure and bonding in ylides and pentaalkyls. This recent work is summarized here with the main focus directed to some of the very simple compounds and their silicon derivatives, which have turned out to be of special significance. 

The major practical and scientific result of zeolite catalysis is a great improvement in several major petroleum technologies and a new and growing interest of scientists of various disciplines in catalysis. The result of the latter is a growing tendency to characterize the structural details of catalysts using all available physical and chemical methods, as a welcome complement to kinetic studies. 

This journal is published bimonthly by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) at 1916 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103. The editorial objectives are to 1) Publish new technical information derived from the field and laboratory testing, performance, quantitative characterization, and evaluation of materials, products, systems and services, 2) Present new test methods and data and critical evaluation of these methods and data, 3) Report the users experience with test methods and the results of interlaboratory testing and analysis, 4) Provide the scientific basis for both new and improved ASTM standards, 5)... 

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