In the week from August 11, the following webinars await you in the field of atomic and molecular spectroscopy and spectrometry<blockquote><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinars">👉 DETAILS AND REGISTRATION IN THE WEBINARS SECTION</a>👉 Search and filter in the largest global database with over 4 500 GC, LC, MS and spectroscopy webinars.</blockquote><h5>1. C&amp;EN/Magritek: One for All: Spinsolve NMR with Unlimited Nuclei and Variable Temperature Right on Your Bench</h5><ul><li>Tu, 12.8.2025 17:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/5323">Registration</a></li></ul>This webinar will present and discuss the latest developments in benchtop NMR technology incorporated into the Spinsolve with practical real-world examples.<h5>2. Agilent Technologies: How to Streamline Elemental Analysis of Lithium-ion Battery Samples using an ICP-OES and an Auto-dilutor</h5><ul><li>Tu, 12.8.2025 21:30 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/4914">Registration</a></li></ul>See how a modern ICP-OES and an auto-dilutor can work together to increase productivity and avoid common challenges with complex lithium-ion battery sample matrices.<h5>3. SPECTRO Analytical Instruments: Automatic ICP-OES Analysis of Lubricating Oils, Fuels, Coolants and AdBlue</h5><ul><li>Th, 14.8.2025 10:30 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/5376">Registration</a></li></ul>Explore how ICP-OES enhances elemental analysis of oils, fuels, coolants, and AdBlue. Learn automation tips, best practices, and ask your questions live.<h5>4. LECO: Determination of Total Carbon and Nitrogen in Soil using the LECO CN828 and CN928</h5><ul><li>Th, 14.8.2025 16:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/5245">Registration</a></li></ul>Discover how LECO CN828 and CN928 elemental analyzers enable precise and efficient total carbon and nitrogen quantification in soil samples.<h5>5. Agilent Technologies: Quantitation Modeling for FTIR and Raman Measurements</h5><ul><li>Th, 14.8.2025 20:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/4927">Registration</a></li></ul>Learn how to develop quantitative analysis models for FTIR using the Cary 630 FTIR spectrometer and MicroLab FTIR software, with practical guidance and examples.

Webinars LabRulezICPMS Week 33/2025

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 11th August 2025? Check out new documents from the field of spectroscopy/spectrometry and related techniques!<blockquote>👉 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library">SEARCH THE LARGEST REPOSITORY OF DOCUMENTS ABOUT SPECTROSCOPY/SPECTROMETRY RELATED TECHNIQUES</a></blockquote><blockquote>👉 Need info about different analytical techniques? Peek into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezLCMS</a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezGCMS</a> libraries.</blockquote>This week we bring you guide by Agilent Technologies, brochure by Anton Paar and application notes by Metrohm and Shimadzu!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: AA Troubleshooting and Maintenance Guide&nbsp;</h3>Tips, tricks, and good advice for ensuring your AA instruments achieve the best performance<ul><li>Guide</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/technicaloverview_AA_guide_5994_0858_EN_agilent_bc66e8fc7b.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>This Agilent guide provides practical advice for maintaining atomic absorption (AA) instruments, improving performance, and extending instrument lifespan. Based on survey data from 700 laboratories, key challenges include instrument downtime, sample preparation issues, and space constraints. Agilent addresses these through design features like compact instruments and high-performance consumables, including long-life UltrAA hollow cathode lamps with up to 30 % more sensitivity and lifetimes exceeding 8,000 mA hours.The document offers troubleshooting tips for lamps, nebulizers, burners, and spray chambers. It emphasizes prevention—regular rinsing to avoid blockages, polishing burners, replacing pitted impact beads, and aligning burners correctly. For optimal results, it also covers flame chemistry adjustments, such as fine-tuning acetylene flow for nitrous oxide/acetylene flames. Multi-element lamps are shown to deliver performance comparable to single-element lamps when used under recommended conditions.Accurate calibration standards are essential for reliable quantification. The guide explains the differences between Reference Materials (RMs) and Certified Reference Materials (CRMs), advising on preparation, matrix matching, contamination prevention, and storage. Agilent’s standards are manufactured in ISO-accredited facilities, traceable to NIST, and supplied with comprehensive Certificates of Analysis.Finally, the guide outlines recommended daily, weekly, and periodic maintenance schedules, along with a list of key consumables to keep on hand. Agilent offers operating supply kits to support a year of routine operation, helping labs maintain consistent performance, minimize downtime, and ensure data quality in flame, graphite furnace, and vapor generation AA systems.<h3>2. Anton Paar: Solutions for Your Supreme Spirits</h3><ul><li>Brochure</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/XDLIP_058_EN_D_Brochure_Spirits_analysis_overview_screen_d55d8c66c1.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Anton Paar offers a comprehensive range of solutions for precise, efficient, and regulation-compliant analysis of distilled spirits, liqueurs, and related products. Leveraging over 40 years of application expertise, their portfolio includes handheld devices, benchtop density meters, and modular multiparameter systems. These instruments deliver high accuracy—alcohol measurements with repeatability down to 0.01 % v/v—while reducing measurement times by up to tenfold compared with traditional distillation.Key technologies like the Pulsed Excitation Method, FillingCheck™ for bubble detection, and U-View™ for visual sample verification ensure reliable results and streamlined workflows. Instruments are designed for durability, supported by a three-year warranty and a global service network. Applications span the entire production process—from raw material control and fermentation monitoring to distillation, blending, and final product bottling—covering parameters such as alcohol, extract, density, pH, color, turbidity, and sugar content.Systems can be tailored for specific tasks, including wort and juice analysis, liqueur quality control, and safeguarding visual properties like color and clarity. Automation options, such as high-throughput sample changers and integration with AP Connect lab execution software, enable fully digital workflows and higher productivity. These solutions ensure consistent quality, tax compliance, and competitive advantage in the beverage industry.<h3>3. Metrohm: Rapid phenotypic identification of microorganisms with Raman</h3>A simple and nondestructive method for bacterial analysis<ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_rs_047_download_b050d98d38.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Raman spectroscopy is used in microbiology for its potential to identify bacteria and monitor metabolites. All living organisms on Earth are composed of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, phosphorus, sulfur, and other trace elements. These elements bond together to form DNA, lipids, amino acids, and other biomolecules. The composition of these biomolecules varies between organisms. Some bacteria store metabolites (e.g., polyphosphate and glycogen) depending on environmental conditions. The Raman spectra of bacteria reflect these chemical differences, enabling their identification and elucidating their roles in bioprocesses.<h4>EXPERIMENT</h4>Lysogeny broth (LB) agar culture media was prepared by dissolving LB powder and agar powder in deionized water following manufacturer specifications (Sigma-Aldrich). After autoclaving, the mixture was poured into sterilized glass petri dishes and cooled. Once the LB agar solidified, fingers were pressed onto the surface to transfer bacteria to the media.&nbsp;The petri dish was then incubated at room temperature until bacterial colonies were observed. The petri dish was placed on a BAC150B probe holder and BAC151C Video microscope, and Raman spectra were collected from colonies and the culture media (Figure 1).&nbsp;<ul><li>Instrument setup:<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=220&amp;search=+i-Raman+Prime+785"> i-Raman Prime 785</a>,<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=220&amp;search=+i-Raman+EX"> i-Raman EX</a></li></ul><h4>CONCLUSION&nbsp;</h4>Raman spectroscopy can be used to acquire spectra of bacterial colonies directly from solid culture media. Raman spectra collected with 785 nm excitation provides higher resolution, while excitation at 1064 nm reduces fluorescence from culture media. Simple bacterial colonies can be differentiated using PCA models, but advanced machine-learning algorithms can be used to characterize more complex microbial communities. Users can easily export the spectral files from i-Raman instruments for further analysis using BWSpec software or other more advanced machine learning tools.<h3>4. Shimadzu: TOC and TIC Analysis in Hydroxide Solutions Using High-Temperature Catalytic Combustion&nbsp;</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_05_sca_130_305_en_925eeb11bd.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h4>User Benefits</h4><ul><li>TOC and TIC of hydroxide solutions such as NaOH and KOH can be determined using a TOC-L analyzer</li><li>The internal acidification function minimizes the volume of acid required and reduces the time spent on sample preparation.</li><li>The High salt combustion tube kit prolongs the service life of the combustion catalyst</li></ul>Hydroxide solutions, especially sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and potassium hydroxide (KOH), are commonly used in chemical, industrial, and environmental processes. These solutions neutralize acids to form water and salts, a process that is essential in various reactions. As strong bases, NaOH and KOH play a significant role in the production of a variety of goods, including soap, through the saponification process (Figure 1), in which they react with oils and fats. However, organic contaminants in these chemicals can lead to impurities, necessitating quality control of the reactants to ensure product integrity.Furthermore, hydroxides are potent CO₂ absorbers. They form carbonate and bicarbonate ions when they bind CO₂. Their solutions are used for various purposes, including sequestering fossil fuel emissions, which can be quantified by measuring total inorganic carbon (TIC).&nbsp;KOH is an essential electrolyte in the alkaline electrolysis of green hydrogen. Total organic carbon (TOC) limits must be maintained to ensure the smooth operation of this sensitive technology. Analytical quality control of hydroxide solutions is therefore necessary to ensure product quality and uphold process efficiency of alkaline electrolyzers.<h4>Measurement conditions TOC analysis</h4><ul><li>Analyzer: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=TOC-L+">TOC-L CxH</a> (CxN possible for NPOC analysis only)&nbsp;</li><li>Catalyst: Saline&nbsp;</li><li>Meas. Parameter: NPOC (Direct method TOC=NPOC)&nbsp;</li><li>Calibration curve: 5-point NPOC calibration using automatic dilution function in the range of 0,1 - 10 mg/l, 10 mgC/l KHP standard solution&nbsp;</li><li>Acidification: H2SO4 4mol/l, acid addition 12 %&nbsp;</li><li>Sparge settings: 5 min. (internal). 80 ml/min</li><li>Injection settings: 150 µl, 3 / max. 5 injections Multiple injections ON&nbsp;</li><li>Other settings: Correction of dilution ON</li></ul><h4>TIC analysis results&nbsp;</h4>The results of the analysis of the KOH and NaOH solutions using the TIC method are shown in Table 5. The calibration stock solution with a TIC concentration of 10 mg/l was used as the control standard as well. Since the TIC concentrations of the KOH and NaOH samples were higher than the calibration span, the instrument automatically re-sampled and re-measured the samples with an increased internal dilution factor using the "correction of dilution" function. These results demonstrate the method's good recovery and robustness.&nbsp;The limit of quantification (LOQ) of the method was determined to as ten times the standard deviation of a sixfold injected pure water blank sample.&nbsp;TIC LOQ: 10 x 0,006 mg/l = 0,06 mg/l.<h4>TOC-L system configuration&nbsp;</h4>For the analysis, a TOC-L CPH was retrofitted with a combustion tube for high-salt samples, operating at 680°C. As a precautionary measure, an SO₃ mist catcher was also installed (see Fig. 4). Combusting at temperatures below the melting points of common salts (particularly sulfates) mitigates blockages caused by molten salt. Instead, the salt precipitates as a powder on the catalyst. The High Salt Kit also includes a catalyst tube with an increased diameter, a mixture of catalyst beads of various sizes, and ceramic mesh to replace the standard platinum nets. This increases the catalyst replacement interval at high salt loads.&nbsp;The combustion of excess sulfuric acid produces sulfur dioxide (SO₂), which then catalytically produces sulfur trioxide (SO₃) in an oxygen atmosphere. This can lead to interference in the CO₂ detection flow line, potentially resulting in false high TOC readings and peak tailing. Furthermore, the combustion products of large amounts of H₂SO₄ are corrosive and can damage the NDIR detector over time. The optional SO₃ mist catcher removes these unwanted combustion products from the sample gas. It is installed after the dehumidifier and before the halogen scrubber in the TOC-L flow path.

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 33, 2025

In the week from August 18, the following webinars await you in the field of atomic and molecular spectroscopy and spectrometry<blockquote><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinars">👉 DETAILS AND REGISTRATION IN THE WEBINARS SECTION</a>👉 Search and filter in the largest global database with over 4 500 GC, LC, MS and spectroscopy webinars.</blockquote><h5>1. Agilent Technologies: Analysis of Major and Trace Constituents in Li-ion Battery Electrolyte Solutions using ICP-OES</h5><ul><li>Tu, 19.8.2025 21:30 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/2766">Registration</a></li></ul>Join us for insights into Li-ion battery design, material purity testing, and electrolyte analysis using ICP-OES, including standard prep and practical tips to boost analytical performance.<h5>2. Agilent Technologies: Overview of Metal Speciation by LC/IC-ICPMS</h5><ul><li>Th, 21.8.2025 20:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/4905">Registration</a></li></ul>This presentation will cover the basic operation of metal speciation by the coupling of chromatography technique with ICPMS.

Webinars LabRulezICPMS Week 34/2025

Many elements, such as chromium, zinc or selenium are considered essential micronutrients for humans and are subject to ongoing research. Their concentration in foods can be accurately determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS).<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Deciphering_Selenium_Nutrition_Using_Speciation_Analysis_with_ICP_MS_3ecef88508.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: Deciphering Selenium Nutrition Using Speciation Analysis with ICP-MS" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Deciphering_Selenium_Nutrition_Using_Speciation_Analysis_with_ICP_MS_3ecef88508.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1200" height="600"><article><div>However, beyond the actual levels of an element in a sample, the precise chemical form in which it is present is important. Trace elements may occur in different oxidation states (for example, essential Cr (III) and its carcinogenic counterpart Cr (VI)) or may be found incorporated into organic molecules. This may lead to significantly different results when assessing potential hazards from a sample with respect to toxicity. For example, fruit juices such as apple juice may only contain 10 µg∙L-1 of arsenic, as it is mostly found as inorganic arsenic, whereas fish and seafood can be safely consumed even though they may contain total concentrations 1000-fold higher, as arsenic is commonly found in organic forms. The qualitative and/or quantitative determination of different chemical forms of an analyte in a sample is often referred to as speciation analysis.Prof. Dr. Marc Birringer, Alexander Maxones and Simon Glas from the University of Applied Science in Fulda, Germany, working at the department for nutritional, food and consumer sciences, explore the importance of selenium (Se) in foods, leveraging speciation analysis to assess different selenium species for their bioavailability. “The journey on selenium species started in the 1990s”, says Prof. Birringer, “when people started to understand why selenium is important for biochemistry and nutrition. When we started with ICP-MS as a new technique in our lab, we learned that this technique can really give us a lot of information in single and multi-element analysis, and we planned to perform speciation analysis, too.”Selenium is an essential trace element that is low in abundance in Germany. Important sources for this essential trace element are fish, meat or eggs. Because these foods are not part of a vegetarian’s or vegan’s diet, they are particularly susceptible to the potential risk of malnutrition. Mushrooms, in particular porcini mushroom (boletus edulis), could be an alternative source when meat or fish are not part of the diet based on an individual’s choice. One compound that is particularly abundant is selenoneine, a derivative of ergothioneine, where a selenium atom replaces a sulfur atom.Whereas there are a lot of chromatographic methods established to separate other water-soluble selenium compounds, like inorganic selenium (Se (IV) and Se (VI)), methods allowing separation of organic selenium compounds like selenoneine are more difficult to optimize when ICP-MS is used as an element-specific detection system. Separation based on hydrophilic interaction chromatography (HILIC) typically start with high amounts of organic solvents in the mobile phase, which require the ICP-MS to be equipped accordingly., i.e. oxygen addition to the plasma and platinum tipped cones.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/content/lifetech/global/en/home/industrial/chromatography/ion-chromatography-ic.html">Ion chromatography (IC)</a> is well known for its ability to separate charged ions or polarizable species and is often the technique of choice for speciation analysis of elements such as arsenic or selenium. Typical IC systems, such as the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/410">Thermo Scientific Dionex ICS-6000 Ion Chromatography systems,</a> are fully inert and can therefore leverage eluents with very high or low pH values. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“We have an ICS-6000 HPIC in the laboratory, but that system is usually blocked for other assays. However, the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products?category=39&amp;search=Vanquish">Thermo Scientific Vanquish HPLC</a> was also compatible with the mobile phase we used, which was at pH 2”, says Prof. Birringer. “This system was used for the separation with a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/2076">Thermo Scientific Dionex IonPac CS12 column</a>.&nbsp; This allowed good separation for the organic compounds containing selenium, even though the separation of the inorganic and ionic species was not ideal under these conditions.”During method development, it was very important to also monitor sulfur, as there is no standard available for selenoneine and instead, the sulfur-containing analog ergothioneine was used. For both elements, the use of a triple quadrupole ICP-MS system such as the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1488">Thermo Scientific iCAP MTX ICP-MS</a> provides significant advantages. Both elements are potentially biased by polyatomic interferences (especially the most abundant isotopes 32S and 80Se), which can be efficiently reduced using oxygen as a reactive gas.“What we found in the boletus edulis was a lot of compounds that we did not know before or could at least not explain as we have no mass spectra to confirm structures, but we do have the ICP-MS data”. They must be present in low concentrations and would likely be found in the noise in a normal LC-MS run states Prof. Birringer.Coupling of the two systems is straightforward. When water-based eluents are applied, the outlet of the column can be directly connected to the nebulizer of the ICP-MS system using narrow bore tubing and a zero dead volume connector. &nbsp;“I´m really comfortable with the system, and I think it gives us a lot of possibilities” says Alexander Maxones. “I would like to explore other column options for future projects, as I think smaller particles would be beneficial for further separation of species”, he adds.For data evaluation, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/76">Thermo Scientific Chromelon CDS software</a> was used, as it provides more options for peak integration and smoothing of raw data, if needed. The original data collected on the ICP-MS can be directly imported into Chromeleon CDS software.“The methodology developed can now be applied to a wider range of samples. We have found at least five unknown compounds in boletus edulis, but it is clear from the literature that other mushrooms, for example shiitake, can also accumulate some selenium. We are sure they have similar but also different compounds to be investigated”, says Prof. Birringer. Next is additional food matrices, but also human samples.<blockquote><ul><li>For more information, please visit the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.hs-fulda.de/oecotrophologie/labore/analytik">laboratory´s website</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/content/lifetech/global/en/home/industrial/mass-spectrometry/inductively-coupled-plasma-mass-spectrometry-icp-ms/quadrupole-icp-ms-systems.html"><ins>Quadrupole ICP-MS Systems</ins></a>.</li><li>Visit us on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/72003132/admin/dashboard/">LinkedIn:</a>&nbsp;#ICP-MS</li></ul></blockquote></div></article><section><blockquote><h4>Daniel Kutscher</h4>Dr. Daniel Kutscher manages the Application Development for trace elemental analysis and GC/GC-MS products at the Thermo Fisher Scientific Center of Excellence in Mass Spectrometry in Bremen, Germany. After graduation in Chemistry in 2007, Daniel obtained his PhD from the University of Oviedo in 2011. In the same year, he joined Thermo Fisher Scientific and has had different roles in application development and marketing.</blockquote></section>

Deciphering Selenium Nutrition Using Speciation Analysis with ICP-MS

Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) techniques such as ICP-MS and ICP-OES are indispensable for trace elemental analysis in environmental monitoring, materials science, geochemistry, and pharmaceuticals. These instruments rely on a stable plasma source, precise sample introduction, and robust vacuum systems to achieve high sensitivity and reliable data.Because ICP systems operate under extreme conditions—high-frequency RF power, corrosive acids, and high vacuum—certain components are especially prone to wear and failure.<h4>Which Parts Break Down Most Often and Why?</h4><ul><li>RF Generators: Continuous plasma operation stresses RF components; degradation causes unstable plasma or ignition failures.</li><li>Spray Chambers &amp; Torches: Exposed to acids and high temperature, leading to devitrification, clogging, or corrosion.</li><li>Vacuum Pumps: High-duty operation leads to bearing wear and reduced pumping efficiency.</li><li>Electronics &amp; Controllers: Essential for stable RF and vacuum control; aging electronics can cause intermittent failures.</li></ul><h4>What Needs to Be Replaced Frequently?</h4><ul><li>Cones, torches, nebulizers, spray chambers – high-wear consumables due to chemical and thermal stress.</li><li>Vacuum pumps and pump controllers – replaced when performance declines or maintenance cycles are exceeded.</li><li>RF generators – critical replacements when plasma ignition or stability issues appear.</li></ul>Proactive maintenance and timely replacement of these components ensures long-term reliability and accuracy of ICP-MS and ICP-OES systems.<h3>Offered ICP Spare Parts</h3><h5>1.&nbsp;Agilent: Radio Frequency (RF) Generator for ICP-MS, G8400-67033 (Tested)</h5>Delivers stable RF power for argon plasma in ICP-MS, ensuring efficient ionization, high sensitivity, and reliable performance.<ul><li>Available: 2× Tested</li><li>Price: €7,500.00</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/bazaar/484">Detailed offer can be found here</a> There are two RF generators of this type available – <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/bazaar/520">detailed information about the second one is available here.</a></li></ul><h5>2. Agilent: Inert Spray Chamber for 5000 Series ICP-OES &amp; MP-AES, G8014-68002 (New)</h5>Inert double-pass spray chamber with removable baffle and ball joint outlet, designed for Agilent 5000 ICP-OES and MP-AES.<ul><li>Price: €1,200.00</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/bazaar/482">Detailed offer can be found here</a></li></ul><h5>3. Edwards: nEXT 200D200 V.160W Vacuum Pump (Tested)</h5>High-performance turbomolecular vacuum pump for ICP-MS, MS, EM, and other demanding high-vacuum environments.<ul><li>Price: €5,900.00</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/bazaar/456">Detailed offer can be found here</a></li></ul><h5>4. Agilent: TURBO-V301 Navigator Turbo Pump with Controller (New)</h5>Compact oil-free turbopump with Navigator controller; ideal for ICP-MS, GC/MS, LC/MS, microscopy, and semiconductor applications.<ul><li>Price: €4,100.00</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/bazaar/379">Detailed offer can be found here</a></li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Agilent_TURBO_V301_Navigator_Turbo_Pump_with_Controller_2_73a558b95f.jpg" alt="Agilent: TURBO-V301 Navigator Turbo Pump with Controller " srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Agilent_TURBO_V301_Navigator_Turbo_Pump_with_Controller_2_73a558b95f.jpg 208w," sizes="100vw" width="1713" height="1285">

Power Your Plasma: Essential Spare Parts for ICP-MS & ICP-OES

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 34, 2025

The determination of asbestos in the air and working environment is crucial for ensuring the safety and health of individuals who may be exposed to this hazardous material. Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals that have been widely used in construction, manufacturing, and other industries due to their heat resistance and durability. However, asbestos fibres are known to be carcinogenic and can lead to serious health issues when inhaled. Research conducted so far indicates that individuals exposed to asbestos in their workplace face the highest risk of developing diseases associated with asbestos exposure.Asbestos is a general term for a group of six fibrous mineral silicates that can be divided into two groups, amphibole (amosite, actinolite, anthophyllite, crocodolite, tremolite) and serpentine (chrysotile). They are naturally occurring minerals that usually form long filaments that tend to split along their length. Numerous industries put workers at high risk for asbestos exposure. High-risk occupations include workers who manufactured, installed, or removed asbestos products, e.g. aircraft and auto mechanics, construction and industrial workers, firefighters, machinists, and many others. Despite global regulations that either prohibit or control the use of this material, the uncertainty regarding the levels of asbestos fibres in the environment resulting from various sources of exposure persists.<h3>Asbestos in the workplace has to be controled, especially in the construction industry</h3>Determining the presence of asbestos is critically important before demolishing old buildings due to the serious health risks associated with asbestos exposure. Asbestos was widely used in construction materials for its heat resistance and durability. However, when these materials degrade or are disturbed during demolition, renovation, or maintenance activities, they can release asbestos fibres into the air. Inhalation of these airborne fibres can lead to various health problems, including severe respiratory diseases and cancer. Asbestos in buildings is most often found in ceiling sealants, roofing materials, plaster walls, gaskets, and certain cement flooring.<h3>Asbestos Monitoring in Air Samples</h3>The concentration of asbestos in air samples can be monitored by two methods: stationary sampling, which measures the quantity of airborne fibres in a monitored area, and personal sampling, which monitors the exposure of workers while handling asbestos materials. In both methods, a specified volume of air is filtered, and the collected sample is later analysed in the laboratory using a microscope.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ALS_Czech_Republic_Enviro_Mail_7_Europe_Occupational_Asbestos_Exposure_and_Methods_of_Monitoring_6_f3e164f439.jpg" alt="ALS Czech Republic: EnviroMail™7/Europe: Occupational Asbestos Exposure and Methods of Monitoring: Figure 1. Stationary Sampling of Working Environment." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_ALS_Czech_Republic_Enviro_Mail_7_Europe_Occupational_Asbestos_Exposure_and_Methods_of_Monitoring_6_f3e164f439.jpg 217w," sizes="100vw" width="1067" height="767"><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ALS_Czech_Republic_Enviro_Mail_7_Europe_Occupational_Asbestos_Exposure_and_Methods_of_Monitoring_5_74b15161a5.jpg" alt="ALS Czech Republic: EnviroMail™7/Europe: Occupational Asbestos Exposure and Methods of Monitoring: Figure 2. Personal Sampling of Working Environment." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_ALS_Czech_Republic_Enviro_Mail_7_Europe_Occupational_Asbestos_Exposure_and_Methods_of_Monitoring_5_74b15161a5.jpg 150w," sizes="100vw" width="1067" height="1111"><h3>Methods for Asbestos Determination</h3>There are two basic methods widely used for the analysis of asbestos in the working environment: the Phase Contrast Microscope (PCM), and electron microscopy (SEM – Scanning Electron Microscopy, TEM – Transmission Electron Microscopy). Only respirable fibres are always counted, as they have the greatest potential to penetrate deeper into the lungs. Respirable fibres are fibres longer than 5 µm, narrower than 3 µm and with a length to width ratio greater than 3:1.<h3>Phase Contrast Microscopy (PCM) Method</h3>PCM is one of the initial techniques used to assess the concentration of asbestos fibres in the air. This method is primarily used for monitoring the exposure levels of workers when working with asbestos materials. Like any method, it has its advantages and disadvantages. On the positive side, it offers quick results and is cost-effective. However, a notable limitation is PCM inability to differentiate asbestos fibres from other mineral fibres. Therefore, it is best suited for analyses where it is known that workers were handling asbestos materials.The process involves passing the air through a cellulose filter, followed by a laboratory analysis using the Phase Contrast Microscopy (PCM). This method enhances the visibility of transparent and low-contrast objects, such as asbestos fibres. The microscope is equipped with phase contrast objectives and condensers. To ensure accurate measurements, a glass slide with a known size reference (Walton-Beckett ring in our case), is placed in the microscope’s field of view. This reference is used to calibrate the microscope and establish a size scale for particles. Subsequently, respirable fibres with at least one end within the ring are counted across 100 fields. Using the known air volume and the analysed filter area, the concentration of asbestos and mineral fibres per cubic centimetre (cm³) can be calculated. The limit of the method is 0.01 fibres/cm³.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ALS_Czech_Republic_Enviro_Mail_7_Europe_Occupational_Asbestos_Exposure_and_Methods_of_Monitoring_4_163557efa0.jpg" alt="ALS Czech Republic: EnviroMail™7/Europe: Occupational Asbestos Exposure and Methods of Monitoring: Figure 3. PCM Analysis of Asbestos Fibres in Air Samples." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_ALS_Czech_Republic_Enviro_Mail_7_Europe_Occupational_Asbestos_Exposure_and_Methods_of_Monitoring_4_163557efa0.jpg 172w," sizes="100vw" width="758" height="687"><h3>Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) Method</h3>The primary application of SEM method is the analysis of filters obtained from stationary air sampling. The analysis is based on the recognized standard VDI 3492. The main advantage of SEM method is the ability to distinguish between asbestos and mineral fibres, offering clients a more accurate assessment of asbestos levels in the air. Respirable fibres are sought on a polycarbonate filter, which are then subjected to elemental analysis and identified as asbestos, mineral fibres, or other types of fibres. This method is employed for overseeing areas that have been in contact with asbestos materials. Before such spaces are released for regular use, it is necessary to declare that they meet strict national limits for asbestos concentration in the air. During the sampling process, fibres are captured on a polycarbonate filter, which is subsequently analyzed in the laboratory using an electron microscope. At a magnification of 2000x, a known area of the filter is examined, and then this is recalculated to represent the sampled volume of air. The analysis is slightly more demanding than the conventional optical method but offers a significantly lower limit of 0.0001 fibres/cm³.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ALS_Czech_Republic_Enviro_Mail_7_Europe_Occupational_Asbestos_Exposure_and_Methods_of_Monitoring_3_54f19b246e.jpg" alt="ALS Czech Republic: EnviroMail™7/Europe: Occupational Asbestos Exposure and Methods of Monitoring: Figure 4. SEM Analysis of Asbestos Fibres in Air Samples." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_ALS_Czech_Republic_Enviro_Mail_7_Europe_Occupational_Asbestos_Exposure_and_Methods_of_Monitoring_3_54f19b246e.jpg 161w," sizes="100vw" width="768" height="744"><h3>The Current State of European Legislation</h3>The Council has reached a preliminary agreement with the European Parliament on a new legislation aimed at enhancing the protection of workers against asbestos exposure risks. After a maximum transition period of 6 years, member states will need to adopt an electron microscopy as a golden standard method for asbestos measurement and member states will have two choices:<ol><li>to measure thin asbestos fibres, in which case the maximum exposure limit will remain at 0.01 f/cm³.</li><li>not to measure thin asbestos fibres, but the maximum exposure limit will be lowered to 0.002 f/cm³.</li></ol>

EnviroMail™7/Europe: Occupational Asbestos Exposure and Methods of Monitoring

Combining at least five elements into a single crystalline structure to create a transparent ceramic material that more efficiently transmits light beams – that is the goal of the research for which Tereza Havlíková from CEITEC BUT received the prestigious Brno PhD Talent scholarship. Her work opens doors to more efficient lasers, scintillators, and LED technologies.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_VUT_Ocenena_studentka_Tereza_Havlikova_vyviji_keramiku_ktera_sviti_3_dbaece250d.jpg" alt="CEITEC VUT / Václav Koníček: Tereza Havlíková Brno PhD Talent 2025" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_VUT_Ocenena_studentka_Tereza_Havlikova_vyviji_keramiku_ktera_sviti_3_dbaece250d.jpg 235w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="1067">Tereza Havlíková has been working at CEITEC BUT in the Advanced Multifunctional Ceramics group for three years where she is developing a new type of transparent ceramic material that may be used in optics and photonics. Her aim is to find the optimal composition and technological preparation process for ceramic compounds with maximum transparency and photoluminescence – the ability to emit light after irradiation.She focuses on so-called high-entropy materials, the use of which in transparent ceramics is still a novelty. "Simply put, it’s about combining multiple elements into a single crystalline structure. A higher number of elements brings greater entropy – or disorder – and thanks to it, the material gains a greater driving force to stabilize even under unusual conditions,” the scientist explains.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_VUT_Ocenena_studentka_Tereza_Havlikova_vyviji_keramiku_ktera_sviti_4_f9c2f8b4ab.jpg" alt="CEITEC VUT / Tereza Havlíková: Tereza Havlíková - Transparent Ceramics" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_VUT_Ocenena_studentka_Tereza_Havlikova_vyviji_keramiku_ktera_sviti_4_f9c2f8b4ab.jpg 208w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="1200">While previous studies have shown that such materials can display remarkable mechanical or superconducting properties, it remains to be seen whether they can also offer benefits for optics. “By combining atoms of different sizes, the crystal lattice becomes distorted (deformed), which leads to a shift or change in the shape of the emission spectrum. This can not only improve efficiency in existing technologies but also expand the range of possible applications,” Tereza adds.Transparent ceramics are used, for example, as a medium for lasers or in lighting technology. They also hold great potential in the field of scintillation detectors, such as those found in X-rays or electron microscopes. “The material can capture X-ray radiation and convert it into the visible spectrum. These are currently the most likely applications, but further possibilities may appear later on,” she says.Tereza's research focuses on materials with a garnet structure, into which she adds rare-earth ions – elements from the bottom part of the periodic table, little known to the public, but valued for their unique luminescent and magnetic properties. “Each element reacts differently. Some interfere with each other, while others complement one another. The challenge is to find five that won’t conflict and ideally will have a synergistic effect,” she notes.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_VUT_Ocenena_studentka_Tereza_Havlikova_vyviji_keramiku_ktera_sviti_993bcfed64.jpg" alt="CEITEC VUT: Tereza Havlíková in the lab" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_VUT_Ocenena_studentka_Tereza_Havlikova_vyviji_keramiku_ktera_sviti_993bcfed64.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="900">The scientists is currently working to identify the ideal chemical composition with the best optical properties. Next, it will be crucial to ensure the optical purity of the material. “Any impurities or defects can scatter light and reduce the material’s ability to transmit it,” she explains.Tereza Havlíková is delighted to have received the Brno PhD Talent scholarship. “Transparent ceramics are very demanding to prepare. It’s a complex process where you need to control every step – from synthesizing chemically pure powder to advanced sintering. It’s a challenge, but that’s exactly what I enjoy about it,” she concludes.

Awarded student Tereza Havlíková is developing ceramics that glow

In the week from August 25, the following webinars await you in the field of atomic and molecular spectroscopy and spectrometry<blockquote><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinars">👉 DETAILS AND REGISTRATION IN THE WEBINARS SECTION</a>👉 Search and filter in the largest global database with over 4 500 GC, LC, MS and spectroscopy webinars.</blockquote><h5>1. Agilent Technologies: How Critical is Spectral Range to Identification of Microplastics?</h5><ul><li>Tu, 26.8.2025 21:30 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/5046">Registration</a></li></ul>Learn about the impact of narrowing the IR spectral range from 4,000–650 cm⁻¹ to 1,800–975 cm⁻¹ on the identification of microplastics using three different IR microscopic techniques.<h5>2. SelectScience: Next-gen 4D-STEM and quantitative imaging with Timepix4</h5><ul><li>We, 27.8.2025 17:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/5408">Registration</a></li></ul>Discover how ultrafast Timepix4 detectors revolutionize 4D-STEM, enabling precise electric field mapping, charge density analysis, and ptychographic imaging.<h5>3. Mettler-Toledo: Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA)</h5><ul><li>Th, 28.8.2025 08:00 CET</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/4744">Registration</a></li></ul>Learn TGA basics, discover DSC as a complementary technique, and explore diverse industry applications in this webinar.<h5>4. AZoM: From Material Quality to Measurement: Proven Solutions for Lithium-Ion Battery Manufacturing Excellence</h5><ul><li>Th, 28.8.2025 09:30 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/5353">Registration</a></li></ul>Discover how quality mindset, precise measurements, and advanced tools drive excellence in Li-ion battery manufacturing in this two-part webinar with Pluskey and Shimadzu experts.<h5>5. Agilent Technologies: Simplified Measurement of Content Distribution of Pharma Tablets</h5><ul><li>Th, 28.8.2025 20:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/3905">Registration</a></li></ul>In this session, imaging of pharmaceutical ingredients in tablets will be discussed.

Webinars LabRulezICPMS Week 35/2025

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 25th August 2025? Check out new documents from the field of spectroscopy/spectrometry and related techniques!<blockquote>👉 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library">SEARCH THE LARGEST REPOSITORY OF DOCUMENTS ABOUT SPECTROSCOPY/SPECTROMETRY RELATED TECHNIQUES</a></blockquote><blockquote>👉 Need info about different analytical techniques? Peek into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezLCMS</a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezGCMS</a> libraries.</blockquote>This week we bring you application notes by Agilent Technologies, Metrohm and Shimadzu and poster by Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: Low-Level UV-Vis Haze Detection for Improved Reliability of Li-Ion Battery Electrolytes &nbsp;</h3>Overcoming quality control blind spots with the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=Cary+60+UV-Vis">Cary 60 UV-Vis</a> and the diffuse reflectance accessory (DRA)<ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_electrolyte_haze_cary_60_uv_vis_dra_5994_8446en_agilent_2f171821a2.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have become indispensable in modern life, powering everything from portable electronics to electric vehicles. As demand grows for higher-capacity, longer-lasting, and more efficient batteries, research efforts continue to focus on optimizing every component, including the electrolyte.&nbsp;The electrolyte plays a critical role in battery performance by enabling the transport of ions between the two electrodes. It typically consists of a lithium salt, most commonly lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6 ), dissolved in a mixture of organic carbonate solvents such as ethylene carbonate (EC), ethyl methyl carbonate (EMC), and dimethyl carbonate (DMC). However, these electrolyte formulations are highly sensitive to moisture and prone to degradation over time. This degradation can lead to the formation of particulate matter or impurities that are invisible to the naked eye but can significantly impact electrolyte quality during manufacturing.&nbsp;In this application note, we explore how the Agilent Cary 60 UV-Vis spectrophotometer, paired with an Agilent Cary 60 diffuse reflectance accessory (DRA), can be used to assess LIB electrolyte quality.&nbsp;Traditional UV-Vis transmission compartments can struggle with low-scattering samples like electrolytes, as scattered light may bypass the detector and lead to inaccurate readings. The Cary 60 DRA mitigates this limitation by enhancing light collection efficiency, making it well-suited for low-level haze&nbsp;analysis.<h4>Experimental</h4><h5>Instrumentation&nbsp;</h5>Diffuse transmission spectra and haze measurements were collected using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=Cary+60+UV-Vis">Agilent Cary 60 UV-Vis spectrophotometer </a>controlled by the Agilent Cary WinUV Color software. The software allows users to select from a range of calculation options, including standardized color coordinate systems such as those defined by the Commission Internationale de l’Eclairage (CIE).&nbsp;For this application, the "Haze as per D1003" calculation mode was selected, which requires four individual scans to be performed using the DRA integrating sphere.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>This study demonstrated the effectiveness of the Agilent Cary 60 UV-Vis equipped with a diffuse reflectance accessory (DRA) for assessing the quality of LIB electrolytes through haze measurements. The innovative method enabled the detection of particulates and early signs of degradation that are not visible to the naked eye, but can significantly impact battery performance, safety, and lifespan. Haze levels of the solutions increased notably with storage time and exposure to air, confirming the instrument's sensitivity to moisture‑induced changes in electrolyte composition. Measuring low-scattering samples in a standard UV‑Vis transmission compartment can be difficult because scattered light may miss the detector, causing inaccurate measurements. The Cary 60 DRA improves light collection efficiency, making it ideal for low-level haze analysis. As the integrating sphere collects all scattered light, this technique monitors minor changes in electrolyte condition, which is useful for assessing samples stored or transported under different environmental conditions. With the added advantage of automated calculations and reporting through the Agilent Cary WinUV Color software, the method offers a reliable, user-friendly solution for quality control in LIB electrolyte manufacturing and storage. The Cary 60 UV-Vis method helps manufacturers make informed decisions about handling and using electrolytes, ultimately supporting the production of safer, higher‑performing batteries.<h3>2. Metrohm: Determination of olive oil quality parameters and adulteration with NIR spectroscopy&nbsp;</h3>Near-infrared spectroscopy reduces costs and chemical waste<ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_nir_125_download_be04b478c5.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Olive oil quality depends on many factors, such as time spent processing olives after harvest, the production process itself, and olive variety. Due to its high price, virgin olive oil in particular is one of the most vulnerable vegetable oils for food fraud. Many parameters are used to determine the oil quality including the iodine value, free fatty acids (FFA), refractive index, fatty acid composition, and aging indicators such as peroxide value (PV), K232, and induction time. Traditional analysis techniques for olive oil testing like titration or gas chromatography (GC) often require hazardous solvents which can pose health risks and increase laboratory costs. In contrast to these standard methods, the analysis with nearinfrared spectroscopy (NIRS) helps to increase productivity and reduce costs, providing quick results for olive oil quality control<h4>EXPERIMENTAL EQUIPMENT&nbsp;</h4>A selection of olive oils with varying quality (137 samples) were measured on the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=220&amp;search=OMNIS+NIR">OMNIS NIR</a> Analyzer Liquid (Figure 1) in transmission mode (1000–2250 nm) using 8 mm disposable vials. The vial temperature was set and monitored at 40 °C with the built-in vial sensor to ensure consistent measurement performance. The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=220&amp;search=OMNIS+software">OMNIS software</a> was used for all data acquisition and prediction model development.<h4>CONCLUSION</h4>This Application Note displays the positive attributes of olive oil analysis with near-infrared spectroscopy. Compared to time-consuming conventional analytical methods, measurements performed with NIRS do not need any sample preparation. This ultimately leads to a workload reduction (Table 3) and reduced costs. Aside from the parameters shown in this Application Note, additional olive oil quality parameters like sterol content or moisture content can also be determined with NIRS.<h3>3. Shimadzu: Evaluation of the Temperature Dependency of Tensile Strength of Electrode Materials for Lithium- Ion Batteries&nbsp;</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_00926_en_68e36051d4.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h5>User Benefits</h5><ul><li>A thermostatic chamber makes it possible to measure the tensile strength in actual temperature environments.&nbsp;</li><li>Pneumatic flat grips for foil make it possible to reduce the variation in grip force and stabilizing test conditions.&nbsp;</li><li>By using a load cell with a wider accuracy guarantee range than a conventional one, it is possible to perform high-accuracy tests even with a small test force</li></ul>Lithium-ion batteries play an important role in various electronic devices due to their high energy density and excellent charging efficiency. To improve battery performance, battery materials and processing methods are actively being developed. One of the evaluation methods for mechanical properties is strength measurement. The metal (current collector) used in the electrodes of lithium-ion batteries is subjected to tensile force during the manufacturing process. Evaluation of temperature dependence is required because the metal is also subjected to heat during manufacturing. This Application News introduces a workflow consisting of tensile strength evaluation of metal foil used as lithium-ion battery electrodes. The tests were performed under various temperatures to evaluate the temperature dependence of tensile strength. The apparatus used is also described.<h4>Apparatus&nbsp;</h4>Table 1 shows test apparatus configuration. In this experiment, Precision <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=AGS+-V">Universal Testing Machine AGS -V</a> was used and pneumatic flat grips for foil were mounted on it. These grips reduce the swing of the grip faces and their surfaces are processed into special shapes. This reduces the risk of fracture of the specimen at the clamped portion when testing a foil specimen. These pneumatic grips make it possible to mount specimens and to make the gripping force constant for each test. To adjust the temperature of the test space, the Compact-type <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=TCE-N300A">Thermostatic Chamber TCE-N300A</a> was used. It can be operated by the testing machines operation software TRAPEZIUM X-V. This software can control both the chamber and the testing machine in the same display. This function improves the system convenience.<h4>Conclusion</h4>&nbsp;Tensile tests using the AGS-V were conducted on three kinds of metal foil used as electrodes in lithium-ion batteries in the thermostatic chamber TCE-N300A. The test results show that the strength tended to decrease with increasing the temperature in all materials. The elongation at failure tended to increase at 180 °C for C1100 and at 100 °C and 180 °C for A1N30 and A1070.&nbsp;Pneumatic flat grips for foil make it possible to conduct tests without fracture nor slippage of the specimen at the clamped portion.&nbsp;This measurement enables the temperature dependence of the mechanical characteristics of metal foil used as electrodes for lithium-ion batteries to be easily obtained. It is expected to be applied to solving problems such as material selection and processing methods for lithium-ion batteries.<h3>4. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) for the Analysis of the Spatial Distribution of Trace Elements in Biological Systems&nbsp;</h3><ul><li>Poster</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/po_65485_icp_ms_imaging_spatial_distribution_trace_elements_asms2019_po65485_en_138f5f9ad8.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) is widely recognized as a powerful technique for the determination of trace elements in a variety of sample types. It is able to directly and quantitatively assess the amount of an element (e.g. toxic elements such as As or Hg, but also essential elements such as Cu, Zn, or Se). In some cases, not only the concentration, but also the lateral distribution can provide important information when investigating biological systems. Laser ablation imaging is becoming a well-established tool to visualize both naturally occurring and artificially introduced trace elements; however, there are challenges to overcome in order to achieve high lateral resolution and image contrast.<h4>MATERIALS AND METHODS</h4><h5>Test Method&nbsp;</h5>For the analysis, a Teledyne CETAC Technologies LSX-213 G2+ laser ablation system was coupled to a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1206">Thermo Scientific™ iCAP™ TQ ICP-MS.</a> The iCAP TQ ICP-MS was configured with a high sensitivity interface (Table 1) to ensure the detection of analytes even in low concentrations and small amounts of ablated sample. Prior to the measurements, all plasma and interface related settings were tuned automatically and were fully tailored to the LA-based sample introduction by using the autotune procedures provided in the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1489">Thermo Scientific™ Qtegra™ Intelligent Scientific Data Solution (ISDS) Software.</a><h5>Data Analysis&nbsp;</h5>Both devices (laser ablation system mass spectrometer) were controlled using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1489">Qtegra ISDS Software</a>. Through the use of dedicated plug-ins, full synchronization of data acquisition, allowing unattended routine operation for overnight runs, was possible. Data acquisition was accomplished using the tQuant virtual evaluation of the Qtegra ISDS Software. Data reduction and image construction were accomplished using self-developed software<h4>What is Elemental Imaging?&nbsp;</h4>Elemental images or maps refer to an LA-ICP-MS analysis that provides information on the elemental distribution across a two-dimensional area of a sample, for example across the surface of a biological tissue section. As the laser is fired at the sample surface, the sample is moved at a defined and constant rate. This means that the time profile of a line scan can be translated into a distance profile. Gathering multiple profiles across the sample generates a 2D image of the elemental distribution in the sample (3D after moving the laser sampling point in the vertical axis), where signal intensity is directly proportional to concentration.<h4>CONCLUSIONS&nbsp;</h4><ul><li>The LA-ICP-MS system described has been shown to be ideally suited for the high spatial resolution bioimaging analysis of various elements in thin sections in both single and triple quadrupole analysis modes.&nbsp;</li><li>The use of triple quadrupole technology in the iCAP TQ ICP-MS system clearly improves the images produced for analytes such as Ca (through the analysis of 44Ca 16O+ at m/z 60), iron (through the analysis of 56Fe 16O+ at m/z 72) or Se (through the analysis of 80Se 16O+ at m/z 96).&nbsp;</li><li>This also enables a wider dynamic range and cleaner backgrounds to reveal additional structural information not detectable by traditional single quadrupole ICPMS.</li></ul>

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News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 35, 2025

Webinars LabRulezICPMS Week 35/2025

Awarded student Tereza Havlíková is developing ceramics that glow

EnviroMail™7/Europe: Occupational Asbestos Exposure and Methods of Monitoring

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 34, 2025

Deciphering Selenium Nutrition Using Speciation Analysis with ICP-MS

Power Your Plasma: Essential Spare Parts for ICP-MS & ICP-OES

Webinars LabRulezICPMS Week 34/2025

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 33, 2025

Webinars LabRulezICPMS Week 33/2025

Upcoming events

18th Mass Spectrometry School in Biotechnology and Medicine

17th European Workshop on Laser Ablation (EWLA 2026)

Goldschmidt 2026

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Dry Matter and Ash Determination in Wastewater and Sewage Sludge

Cracking the Code on Nitrogen Methods

ICP Expert 7.8: Booming ICP-OES Software Innovation