The Center for Elemental Mass Spectrometry (CEMS) is a core analytical facility run by a full-time laboratory manager. CEMS uses plasma-source mass spectrometers to produce trace metal and isotope ratio measurements on a wide variety of sample types, including rocks and minerals, sediments, fossils, soils, organic material, seawater, groundwater, surface water and microscopic marine organisms. The goal of CEMS is to understand the physical and chemical processes that shape the solid earth, the world's oceans and our environment. CEMS also does a variety of work on a fee basis for individuals and organizations from outside of the University of South Carolina.

CEMS offers services in the following areas:

• Isotope ratio measurements primarily using a Thermo Neptune multi-collector sector field plasma-source mass spectrometer
• Trace metal abundance measurements analyzed by a high-resolution Element II  quadrupole mass spectrometer
• Laser ablation, including direct in-situ and non-destructive measurements of solid samples using a Photon Machines Excimer 193 nm laser system often coupled with an Element II high-resolution ICP mass spectrometer
• Clean lab services in the core’s 600 square-foot, metal-free laboratory, designed for open counter, low-blank sample handling

Visit the CEMS website for more information about its faculty, publications and more.