Putting Sample Prep Centerstage

Abstract

[eng] Sample preparation has achieved exceptional progress over the past few decades; we've seen the introduction of powerful technologies, advances in fundamental knowledge, and a plethora of breakthrough applications. However, enthusiasm for sample preparation is not necessarily shared by all members of the analytical chemistry community - let alone other scientific disciplines. The idea that sample preparation is an "art" and not a "science" or that the discipline relies on application-driven research remains well-entrenched in the minds of many academics and non-academics. Indeed, sample preparation scientists have, on the whole, done a poor job of communicating contemporary advances and celebrating the successes of the field. There has been a lack of communication with external platforms, and an absence of credible and influential voices to articulate sample preparation's importance and contributions.