Core Viewpoint - The article commemorates the life and contributions of Huang Benli, a prominent figure in atomic spectroscopy in China, who passed away at the age of 100. It highlights his significant achievements in the field and his role in advancing analytical chemistry and education in China [2][4][12]. Group 1: Personal Background and Career - Huang Benli was born on September 21, 1925, in Hong Kong and later became a professor at Xiamen University after a long career at the Chinese Academy of Sciences [4][5]. - He was a pioneer in atomic spectroscopy, becoming the first doctoral advisor in China focused on this field and was elected as an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences in 1993 [11][12][16]. - Throughout his career, he held various prestigious positions, including president of the Chinese Chemical Society and editor-in-chief of "Spectroscopy and Spectral Analysis" [4][12]. Group 2: Contributions to Atomic Spectroscopy - Huang Benli established several firsts in atomic spectroscopy in China, including the creation of the first atomic absorption spectroscopy device and the development of a new type of double arc light source for measuring trace elements [16][21]. - He contributed to the development of various analytical methods and technologies, such as the flow injection electrochemical hydride generation method and advancements in atomic fluorescence spectroscopy [16][17][21]. Group 3: Challenges and Future Directions in Atomic Spectroscopy - Huang Benli discussed the challenges faced by atomic spectroscopy, particularly in adapting to the rapid advancements in life sciences and the need for integration with other analytical techniques [20][21]. - He emphasized the importance of "hyphenated techniques," which combine atomic spectroscopy with methods like chromatography and electrophoresis to overcome limitations in analyzing larger molecules [21][27]. - The article also highlights the potential for growth in specialized instruments for environmental and food safety applications, particularly in detecting harmful elements [25][26]. Group 4: Development of Domestic Instruments - The article notes that while China has made significant strides in developing atomic absorption spectrometers, there remains a gap in technology compared to international standards, particularly in the production of high-quality gratings and advanced light sources [29][30]. - Huang Benli pointed out the need for improved software development for analytical instruments to meet the demands of advanced research users [30][31]. - The article discusses the success of domestic atomic fluorescence spectrometers, which have gained a significant market share due to their cost-effectiveness and suitability for various applications [31][32].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the awarding of the "2024 Annual Special Contribution Award for R&D in the Scientific Instrument Industry" to Xu Ying, Chairman of Tianjin Sanying Precision Instrument Co., Ltd., recognizing his significant contributions to the development of high-end scientific instruments in China [1][2]. Group 1: Award Overview - The "China Scientific Instrument Industry R&D Special Contribution Award" was established in 2013 to honor individuals who have made outstanding contributions to scientific instrument technology innovation and industrialization [2][38]. - The award is presented annually at the China Scientific Instrument Development Annual Conference, with a maximum of two recipients each year [2][38]. - The 2025 edition marks the 12th year of the award, with Xu Ying being the 13th recipient [2]. Group 2: Xu Ying's Contributions - Xu Ying, who obtained his PhD from the University of Warwick in 1995, has over 20 years of experience in non-destructive testing and has developed a global perspective through his work in renowned international companies [6]. - He returned to China in 2009 with a mission to contribute to national scientific advancements, leading significant projects such as the development of China's first X-ray three-dimensional microscope with a spatial resolution of 500 nanometers, breaking foreign monopolies [6]. - Under his leadership, Tianjin Sanying Precision Instrument Co., Ltd. has transformed scientific research achievements into internationally advanced products, generating over 850 million yuan in output value and holding 10 invention patents [6]. Group 3: Historical Context of Award Recipients - The article provides a brief overview of past award winners, highlighting their contributions to various fields within scientific instrumentation, such as microwave chemistry, atomic spectroscopy, and the development of advanced analytical instruments [8][10][11][15][18][21][30][33][36]. - Each recipient has played a pivotal role in advancing China's capabilities in scientific instrumentation, often overcoming significant technological challenges and contributing to the country's self-sufficiency in high-tech fields [8][10][11][15][18][21][30][33][36]. Group 4: About the 3i Award - The "3i Award" (Innovative, Interactive, Integrative) was established in 2006 to recognize outstanding contributions in the scientific instrument and testing industry, with a focus on innovation and industry development [39][46]. - The award is based on principles of fairness and transparency, relying on evaluations from industry experts and a large user base to select awardees [39].