Jonathan Merten

Dr. Jonathan Merten is a Professor of Chemistry in the Department of Chemistry & Physics at the Beck College of Sciences & Mathematics, Arkansas State University. His office is located in Room 516 of the Lab Science East building. Contact information includes phone (870-972-3277), fax (870-972-3089), and email (jmerten@astate.edu).

His research focuses on advanced laser-based analytical techniques, with emphasis on:

• Laser-induced plasma diagnostics and dynamics
• Atomic absorption/fluorescence spectroscopy for trace element analysis
• Development of rapid detection methods for environmental contaminants and explosives
• Spatiotemporal evolution of plasma molecular emissions
• Innovations in laser-ablation methodologies for elemental quantification

Applications span environmental monitoring, security screening, and fundamental plasma studies.

Analysis of his 15 most recent publications (2013-2023) reveals strong thematic coherence in laser spectroscopy and plasma analysis. The work demonstrates progressive refinement of time-resolved measurement techniques for plasma characterization, development of field-deployable arsenic detection systems, and fundamental investigations into plasma stoichiometry and thermodynamic behavior. Recent articles show increased focus on absolute quantification methods and hyphenated analytical approaches.