<p><strong>Structural virologist Pavel Plevka, a two-time ERC grant holder and head of a research group at CEITEC Masaryk University, is looking for new colleagues to join his team. Even if you are not a structural virologist seeking an inspiring research environment, this interview is worth reading. Pavel Plevka explains his focus on studying human viruses and bacteriophages, his approach to team leadership, and the opportunities available for students and postdoctoral researchers who want to work in CEITEC's international and interdisciplinary research environment.</strong></p><h5><strong>Most people fear viruses and see them as something that causes problems. However, you look at viruses very closely in the lab, literally. What is so fascinating about structural virology that you have been awarded two ERC grants for research in this field?</strong></h5><p>Studying viruses through structural methods—nowadays primarily cryo-electron microscopy—fascinates me because it allows us to uncover previously unknown biological landscapes. Each virus is a precisely assembled nanoparticle, honed by millions of years of evolution to infect host cells with remarkable efficiency. By examining viral structures and their interactions with host cells, we can dissect the key steps of the infection cycle: how viruses enter cells, hijack their machinery, and ensure the production of progeny virions. Investigating these processes at molecular or even atomic resolution not only satisfies my scientific curiosity (laughs) but also holds promise for developing novel antiviral therapies.</p><p>I received ERC grants thanks to a combination of advanced structural biology methods and a strong focus on studying human pathogens. The scientific questions we address go to the heart of viral life: What does a viral particle look like, and how does it function? How does a virus penetrate a host cell and deliver its genetic material? How does it ensure the replication of its genome? How does it evade the host's defence mechanisms? How are new viral particles assembled from individual components? Structural biology enables me to answer these questions, and our findings may contribute to the fight against viral infections—an ongoing motivation for my work.</p><h5><strong>What was your path to structural virology?</strong></h5><p>I became interested in viruses in high school. When I found out that there was a virology group led by Associate Professor Jitka Forstová at the Faculty of Science at Charles University, it was an obvious choice for me. During my PhD studies in Sweden, I learned to use X-ray crystallography to determine viral structures, and as a post-doc in the U.S., I applied cryo-electron microscopy for the same purpose. Thanks to technological advances, cryo-electron microscopy and tomography are now the main techniques used by my research group.</p><h5><strong>CEITEC of Masaryk University is known for its state-of-the-art research equipment. What laboratory methods and technologies do you use to study virus structures?</strong></h5><p>As I mentioned earlier, we use primarily cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), which allows us to examine the structure of viruses at atomic resolution. Additionally, tomography enables us to observe the infection process within cells. Since CEITEC is part of the Czech Infrastructure for Integrative Structural Biology (CIISB), we have access to cutting-edge equipment that facilitates our research and allows us to keep up with the world's leading laboratories.</p><p>Beyond cryo-EM, we also use molecular biology methods for recombinant protein production, CRISPR-Cas systems for modifying host cell and viral genomes, and biochemical techniques that help us understand the interactions between viral proteins and their receptors or antibodies.</p><h5><strong>What is the future direction of structural virology, and what innovations can we anticipate in the coming years?</strong></h5><p>Structural virology is shifting from simply characterizing viral particle structures to describing the molecular mechanisms of viral infection. From a technological standpoint, cryo-electron microscopy is indispensable, as its continuously improving resolution allows for increasingly detailed insights into virus interactions with cellular components. Cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET) enables us to reconstruct three-dimensional structures of infected cells and observe the impact of viral infections in situ. For instance, observing how enteroviruses exploit membrane vesicle rupture during infection to enter the cytoplasm was fascinating.</p><p>I am also particularly interested in studying bacteriophages, which function as remarkable molecular machines. Our research explores bacteriophages as a potential therapeutic alternative to antibiotics, particularly for treating infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Their ability to selectively target specific bacterial strains without affecting other cells makes them a promising tool for future personalized medicine, opening exciting opportunities for integrating virology with medical research.</p><h5><strong>What do you consider to be your team's most significant achievement so far? Is there a specific discovery that you are particularly proud of?</strong></h5><p>I am always delighted when someone in our group makes a discovery, regardless of its perceived significance, as the importance of a finding is often subjective. This makes it difficult to single out any one discovery. However, I am particularly proud of our research on enteroviruses, where we demonstrated how they enter host cells and release their genome from the viral particle into the cytoplasm. Our work on bacteriophage structures and their intricate mechanisms for hijacking bacterial cells to produce progeny is equally fascinating.</p><h5><strong>Your team gives the impression of being a well-tuned machine. How do you collaborate?</strong></h5><p>I place great importance on ensuring that my research group functions effectively. Selecting the right collaborators is crucial; I strive to bring in students and post-docs who are internally motivated and capable of working constructively with colleagues. Clear communication within the group is essential, so I try to be accessible and approachable. As a team, we meet twice a week. One meeting is dedicated to discussing articles relevant to our research, while the other features two group members presenting updates on their projects. After this meeting, I hold one-on-one discussions with each presenter to address challenges related to their work and set future directions.</p><p>Additionally, as part of CEITEC's annual staff evaluation process, I meet individually with each group member to discuss their working conditions and professional development. To foster a positive team environment, we organize a non-work-related, one-day teambuilding event twice a year and hold several group dinners throughout the year, often accompanied by board games, movie nights, or barbecues.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Pavel_Plevka_Zadavam_kolegum_z_tymu_jen_takove_projekty_na_kterych_bych_chtel_sam_pracovat_8fda0a1b81.jpg" alt="CEITEC: Pavel Plevka: I only give my team colleagues projects that I would be happy to work on myself" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Pavel_Plevka_Zadavam_kolegum_z_tymu_jen_takove_projekty_na_kterych_bych_chtel_sam_pracovat_8fda0a1b81.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="1920" height="1280"></p><h5><strong>What qualities and skills do you look for in new team members? Who are you currently looking for?</strong></h5><p>My group's research focuses on the structural characterization of viruses and their replication cycle within infected cells. Ideally, I seek colleagues with experience in virology and cryo-electron microscopy; however, such specialists are rare worldwide. Therefore, I am interested in motivated and curious individuals eager to learn structural biology and unafraid of working with human pathogens. I value prior international research experience, as my time in Sweden and the U.S. has shown me how it broadens one's perspective, though it is not a requirement. We are looking for PhD students and post-docs to join our team.</p><h5><strong>What opportunities do you offer to candidates who want to join your team?</strong></h5><p>Our team offers the opportunity to participate in studies on viral structures and infection mechanisms. I believe it is essential to assign only those projects that I would personally find engaging. While projects are assigned individually, I encourage team members to collaborate and assist each other in solving specific methodological challenges. A major advantage of CEITEC is access to state-of-the-art technologies housed in shared laboratories. The experts in these facilities have extensive experience with instrumentation and data analysis, significantly accelerating our research. The most relevant facilities for our group include cryo-electron microscopy, light microscopy, macromolecular characterization, and mass spectrometry labs.</p><p>In addition to research work, I expect each group member to attend one or two conferences or training courses annually. My group is currently involved in ERC-Consolidator BioPhage, the National Institute of Virology and Bacteriology (NIVB), and NETPHARM projects.</p><h5><strong>The fundamental trait of a good scientist is natural curiosity, the drive to "go just a little further." What scientific challenges do you plan to tackle in the coming years?</strong></h5><p>I mentioned my group's current research topics earlier in this interview. Our new projects build upon them and include characterizing bacteriophage spread within biofilms using light-sheet fluorescence microscopy and genetically modified phages; describing bacteriophage replication directly in cells using a novel system that allows us to bypass the need for complex preparation of ultrathin samples for transmission electron microscopy; studying the mechanisms of tick-borne encephalitis virus neutralization and activation by antibodies; determining the mechanism of endosomal membrane rupture and its role in non-enveloped virus cell entry; and we also work to resolve the structures of viruses that infect less-studied organisms, such as ciliates.</p>

Pavel Plevka: I only give my team colleagues projects that I would be happy to work on myself

<div><p><strong>During his academic career he has collected one prestigious award after another. However, he is not interested in&nbsp;awards&nbsp;and instead he seeks new interesting challenges. With a head full of ambitious ideas that have the potential to transform the way we look at chemistry, and despite his wealth of experience, he realises that his scientific journey is still at the beginning.</strong></p><p>He is as passionate about his love of coffee as he is about science. If you love it too, you might meet him in one of the cafes in Liberec. In them, and not only in them, he likes to taste different types coming from all over the world. Among his favourites are coffees from Panama, East Timor or Tanzania. "<i>My research, which involves the use of lasers to shape matter at the nanoscale, can also be linked to coffee. For example, the laser fragmentation method I use for this can also be used for cold brew, i.e. cold coffee preparation</i>," says Ondra from CXI TUL.</p><p><strong>Garbage man, president or scientist?</strong></p><p>Although science is now his passion, Ondra's journey did not necessarily have to end there. "<i>I didn't want to do research. All through high school, I heard that I should go do math, physics and nuclear research and become a professor there. In the end, I decided not to go to either faculty. Instead, based on the recommendation of the head of the research on modular nuclear reactors in Řež, I applied to study nanotechnology at TUL, with the idea that after my studies I would anchor myself in a company and enjoy a quiet non-scientific life. And the very good reputation of the local&nbsp;student houses&nbsp;helped me in my final choice of this university</i>," laughs Ondra. "<i>Interestingly, it has always proven to me that even the most seemingly trivial thing can be a great indicator to decide on something</i>."</p><p>Similarly, in the fifth grade, he chose a grammar school because of the new cafeteria, and that turned out to be the right choice. Although he didn't like the school very much, his outlook gradually changed. As a kid he wanted to be a garbage man, and a few months later he wanted to be president, mainly so he could cancel school outright. "<i>I was bored at school, the assignments were taking up my free time, so I was looking for the shortest way to solve them. I was quite a pain in the&nbsp;neck&nbsp;at times. Even the teachers took a break when I was sick,</i>" he recalls. Eventually, though, he found a passion for education. His subject became laser nanotechnology, which allows him to look at things differently.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CXI_TUL_Ondrej_Havelka_Laser_muze_zbavit_chemii_kadinek_i_zazitych_predstav_9798f8a648.jpg" alt="CXI TUL: Ondřej Havelka: Laser can get rid of the chemistry of the beakers" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CXI_TUL_Ondrej_Havelka_Laser_muze_zbavit_chemii_kadinek_i_zazitych_predstav_9798f8a648.jpg 227w," sizes="100vw" width="5463" height="3747"></p><p><strong>Laser synthesis of nanoparticles</strong></p><p>Instead of preparing nanoparticles using conventional wet chemical methods, he prepares them using a laser. And why is that? "<i>The advantage of laser-prepared nanoparticles in liquid lies mainly in their atypical internal structure. The formation of such a structure occurs because of the extremely rapid cooling during their preparation. In other words, the nanoparticles released by the laser from the solid material first take the form of hot spheres of liquid metal, which cool and solidify extremely quickly on contact with the cold liquid. Because of the speed of this process, the atoms inside the nanoparticles don't have enough time to get to places where they would feel comfortable and instead solidify in places we wouldn't expect them to. This creates defects and clusters of atoms that are otherwise unstable in the long term. This gives the nanoparticles unique properties for a number of applications - especially catalysis. We use this advantage to purify water from a variety of pollutants</i>," explains Ondra, who demonstrated the use of laser nanoparticles to purify water from oils, persistent organic substances, and antibiotics.</p><p><strong>Nanotechnology for clean water</strong></p><p>Antibiotic contamination of water has become a much-discussed problem in recent years because it threatens human health. The development of antibiotic resistance alone is already estimated to be responsible for hundreds of thousands of deaths a year. Moreover, other predictions warn that by 2050, resistance could result in up to 10 million deaths per year.</p><p>Experts from across disciplines are aware of the importance of the solution, which is why a special platform <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://czepar.cz/">CZEPAR</a> (Czech Platform for Antibiotic Resistance) was created in the Czech Republic, of which Ondra is a member. He deals with the solution of cleaning water from antibiotics, which is complicated due to their chemical nature. This is where laser-created nanoparticles come into play. They simply break down antibiotics into simpler substances. "<i>We wanted to keep the process simple, so we developed special nanosheets that can break down antibiotics using visible light, potentially very well with sunlight</i>."</p><p>The use of nanoalloys and light overcomes the disadvantages of alternative methods for water purification such as biological removal or adsorption. Biodegradation often shows low efficiency and adsorption, on the other hand, is prone to the back-release of antibiotics when external conditions change. Nanoalloys do not have these problems. Another advantage is the ability to manipulate the nanoparticles with a conventional magnet, allowing them to be easily removed from the water after the process is complete and subsequently reused. "<i>This avoids the paradoxical scenario of removing the antibiotics but adding another potentially hazardous material to the water</i>," Ondra adds. "<i>Although the research is only at the beginning, the first results show a very promising direction for further research. We are already working on the possibility of further improvements,</i>" he concludes by discussing one of his research projects.</p><p><strong>Chemistry without beakers</strong></p><p>In addition to the application of nanoparticles for water purification, Ondra is newly involved in the actual shift in the form of laser nanotechnology. To work with nanoparticles, he stops using conventional laboratory glassware and instead uses a nanoprinter. This approach, for example, allows him to build more complex structures from the nanoparticles themselves. "<i>It's amazing to see such a structure in operation. I like to say that the laser is a tool that can rid chemistry of its cachet and of the conventional ideas about its possibilities,</i>" Ondra explains, adding: "<i>We often have very clear ideas about the shape of fields like chemistry or physics. However, the concept of fields that is only in our heads is gradually changing. This was evident, for example, at the last Nobel Prize ceremony, where two prizes were based on the topic of artificial intelligence.</i>"</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CXI_TUL_Ondrej_Havelka_Laser_muze_zbavit_chemii_kadinek_i_zazitych_predstav_2_aaef113c95.jpg" alt="CXI TUL: Ondřej Havelka: Laser can get rid of the chemistry of the beakers" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CXI_TUL_Ondrej_Havelka_Laser_muze_zbavit_chemii_kadinek_i_zazitych_predstav_2_aaef113c95.jpg 235w," sizes="100vw" width="1692" height="1125"></p><p><strong>Teaching is important</strong></p><p>Ondra has received a number of awards for his activities in the academic environment. Among them are three prestigious awards from the Minister of Education of the Czech Republic and two awards from IOP Publishing. However, he does not want to talk much about the awards. He enjoys the activities themselves. "<i>I try to make sure that everything I do contains an element of enthusiasm. I like to pass this on to others, which is why I love teaching nanotechnology and bioengineering to students. I look for ways to transform the teaching for them, to make it useful, fun and something out of the ordinary. It's great to then see the students progress year on year in what they can do</i>," he says, highlighting the importance of teaching future young scientists</p><p><strong>New challenge: Developing a new nanotechnology</strong></p><p>Ondra's dissertation defense is just around the corner. So what are his future plans? "<i>I have been offered the opportunity to lead a materials research course in Germany. I don't know yet whether it will be again at the Max Planck Institute, where I worked last year, or at one of the German universities. There are now a number of negotiations going on around that with universities in the Excellence Initiative, which is a kind of equivalent of the American Ivy League. Good laboratory facilities where research ideas can be translated into reality will be essential. If all goes well, I would like to start developing a new type of nanotechnology,</i>" he adds.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CXI_TUL_Ondrej_Havelka_Laser_muze_zbavit_chemii_kadinek_i_zazitych_predstav_3_97cb08dcb3.jpg" alt="CXI TUL: Ondřej Havelka: Laser can get rid of the chemistry of the beakers" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CXI_TUL_Ondrej_Havelka_Laser_muze_zbavit_chemii_kadinek_i_zazitych_predstav_3_97cb08dcb3.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="4671" height="3106"></p></div>

Ondřej Havelka: Laser can get rid of the chemistry of the beakers

<p><strong>Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 17th February 2025? Check out new documents from the field of spectroscopy/spectrometry and related techniques!</strong></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-size:20px;">👉 </span><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library"><span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>SEARCH THE LARGEST REPOSITORY OF DOCUMENTS ABOUT SPECTROSCOPY/SPECTROMETRY RELATED TECHNIQUES</strong></span></a></p></blockquote><blockquote><p><strong>👉 Need info about different analytical techniques?</strong> Peek into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library"><strong>LabRulezLCMS</strong></a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library"><strong>LabRulezGCMS</strong></a> libraries.</p></blockquote><p>This week we bring you applications by <strong>Agilent Technologies,&nbsp;Bruker, Metrohm, Shimadzu </strong>and<strong> Thermo Fisher Scientific!</strong></p><h4><strong>1. Agilent Technologies: ICP-OES Quality Control of Elements in Brines Produced by Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE)</strong></h4><p><strong>Automated analysis of lithium brines using an </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=ICP-OES+automation+system"><strong>Agilent ICP-OES Automation System</strong></a></p><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_icp_oes_elements_brine_direct_lithium_extraction_5994_8041en_agilent_93bdef1f77.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) technology is a selective process designed to recover lithium (Li) from underground raw Li brine deposits while removing impurities.<sup>1</sup> Compared to conventional Li extraction methods, such as mining hard rock ores or using brine evaporative methods, DLE is faster, consumes less water and power, produces less waste, and requires less land. Given these process and sustainability advantages, DLE is gaining significant attention from industry, academia, investors, and environmentalists.</p><h5><strong>Agilent ICP-OES Automation System</strong></h5><p>Robust instrumentation is therefore needed for the routine elemental analysis of large numbers of brine samples. An Agilent ICP-OES Automation System comprising the Agilent <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=5900+SVDV+ICP-OES"><strong>5900 SVDV ICP-OES</strong></a>, Advanced Valve System (AVS 7), Advanced Dilution System (ADS 2), SPS 4 autosampler, and instrument software was used in this study. The Agilent <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=5800+VDV"><strong>5800 VDV ICP-OES</strong></a> is also suitable for this application.&nbsp;</p><p>The 5900 ICP-OES uses a vertical plasma torch and a solid-state radio frequency (SSRF) generator operating at 27 MHz to create a plasma with the stability needed for the routine analysis of brines. The integrated AVS 7 switching valve ensures fast analysis times and reduces instrument exposure to solids in high TDS samples.<sup>3</sup> The accessory also minimizes carryover from sodium (Na) and prevents excessive torch devitrification, greatly reducing the frequency of instrument cleaning and extending the lifespan of parts.</p><p>The samples analyzed in this study were produced using a membrane-based DLE methodology and included a wide variety of sample matrices, with target analytes typically present across a broad range of concentrations. Some key analytes, such as Li, Na, and magnesium (Mg), are particularly important to quantify as they directly impact the efficiency of the DLE process.&nbsp;</p><p>To account for the different compositions and densities of the DLE samples, the ADS 2 was used to prepare calibration standards across a wide analytical range and to dilute the samples before analysis.<sup>4</sup> Both processes can be labor-intensive and time-consuming when performed by an analyst, as well as being potential sources of contamination and errors. The implementation of advanced autodilution technology for ICP-OES enhances sample turnaround time and minimizes the risk of human errors, while ensuring accurate results.</p><h5><strong>Conclusion</strong></h5><p>An Agilent ICP-OES Automation System comprising the Agilent 5900 SVDV ICP-OES, AVS 7, ADS 2, SPS 4 autosampler, and ICP Expert Pro instrument software was used to analyze 12 elements in real brine samples. The raw, tail (Li-free), and Li concentrate brine samples were sourced from before and after processing using a membrane-based Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) technique. All samples were analyzed using a single method in a single run.</p><p>The IntelliQuant Screening method development tool within the software was used to set the calibration range for the analytes and to select the best analyte wavelengths. The use of the ICP-OES Automation System provided productivity and performance benefits for the brine application including:</p><ul><li>Automatic calibration. Completely automated calibration from three stock solutions removed the need to manually prepare standards to cover the wide and varying concentration range of analytes in the brines.</li><li>Prescriptive dilution. The ADS 2 was used to automatically dilute all three of the Li brine samples 50 times, so that the samples could be measured in a single run.</li><li>Reactive dilution. The ADS 2 automatically diluted the Li concentrate brine sample 200x in response to the concentration of Li exceeding the calibration range before remeasurement.</li><li>The ADS 2 also performed reactive dilutions on the raw brine (150x) and the tail brine (250x) to quantify Na.</li><li>Results summary report. The software selected the best measurement results to display from the available reactive dilution remeasurement results. It allowed for straightforward data viewing and reduced the amount of time required for manual data processing.</li><li>The AVS 7 minimized the exposure of the torch, nebulizer, and pump tubes to the high matrix samples. It also worked seamlessly with the ADS 2 to improve sample turnaround times.</li></ul><h4><strong>2. Bruker: IR-Spectroscopic Analysis of Polymer Fillers and Compatibilizers</strong></h4><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/AN_M104_Polymer_filler_ALPHA_II_EN_dce568f395.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>Many of today’s plastics are multi component systems with multiple constituents like different polymers, fillers, plasticizers and compatibilizers. By systematic selection and blending of these constituents in appropriate mixture ratios tailor made substances with optimized material properties can be made. An important topic for quality control and analytical purposes is the identification and quantification of the individual components present in such plastics.&nbsp;</p><p>Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy is one of the fastest and most accurate methods for the analysis and quality control of polymers. High quality IR spectra can be recorded in a few seconds; usually there is no need for sample preparation or costs for expensive consumables. Within only a minute FT-IR spectroscopy allows to verify that a given product is within its specification or to quantify one or more of its constituents.</p><h5><strong>Measurement approach</strong></h5><p>Nowadays, quality control and routine analysis using IR spectroscopy is mainly performed applying the ATR (Attenuated Total Reflection) technique. As there is virtually no sample preparation required ATR is much more comfortable to use than the conventional transmission mode. For the analysis the sample has to be pressed on the ATR-crystal, which is the measurement interface. From the ATR-crystal, the IR radiation penetrates slightly (a few microns) into the sample surface. The IR detector of the FT-IR spectrometer can then measure the absorbance resulting from the sample. The ATR-technique can be applied for almost all types of samples (e.g. solids, liquids, powders, pastes, pellets, slurries, fibres etc.). The analysis takes less than a minute, including sampling, measurement and data evaluation. By using ATR, it is even possible to differentiate between the top layers of a polymer laminate, which cannot be achieved in transmission mode.</p><h5><strong>Instrumentation</strong></h5><p>The very compact <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=8&amp;search=Alpha+II"><strong>ALPHA II FT-IR</strong></a> spectrometer with the high pressure Platinum diamond ATR-module is a robust and affordable system that is very easy to operate. Diamond is a very hard-wearing, chemically inert and therefore ideal material for the analysis of a wide range of samples. In the platinum ATR-module the diamond is brazed into tungsten carbide. This extremely robust design allows the application of very high pressure so that even the hardest plastics can be measured. For the measurement of highly absorbing dark samples (e.g. black polymers) and thin layers an ATR-material with a high refractive index is required to limit the penetration depth of the IR-light into the sample. Therefore the Platinum ATR module can be equipped with a germanium (nGe = 4.0) crystal plate. To provide the user an unobstructed access to the sampling area, the pressure applicator can be rotated by 360°. The software is very intuitive and a software wizard guides the user through the analysis procedure.</p><h5><strong>Summary</strong></h5><p>The combination of Bruker Optics compact and robust FT-IR spectrometer ALPHA II with a high pressure diamond ATR unit is an ideal tool to analyze polymers, fillers and polymeradditives. The system allows quantifying single components in complex mixtures. The setup of new methods even for chemically similar polymers is quick and straightforward. A very intuitive work flow allows even spectroscopically inexperienced users to perform the analysis.<br>Altogether the ALPHA II is perfectly suited for the identification of fillers, the quantification of mixture components and the quality control of polymers.</p><h4><strong>3. Metrohm: Moisture content and rheology determination of fluorinated polyolefins using NIRS</strong></h4><p><strong>Moisture and melt flow rate analysis results within seconds</strong></p><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_nir_119_download_ec261a206c.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>Ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) is a partially fluorinated copolymer of ethylene and tetrafluoroethylene. ETFE is a melt processable polymer, designed to have high corrosion resistance and strength over a wide temperature range. Some key quality parameters that should be monitored during the production of fluorinated polyolefins are melt flow rate (MFR) and moisture content. The measurement of these parameters usually involves using chemicals and can be time-consuming. Nearinfrared spectroscopy (NIRS) offers users rapid and reliable prediction of key quality parameters in ETFE without any sample preparation or cleaning procedures.&nbsp;</p><h5><strong>Experimental equipment</strong></h5><p>273 ETFE pellet samples with varying MFR and moisture content were measured on a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=220&amp;search=NIR"><strong>Metrohm nearinfrared spectroscopic analyzer</strong></a> in reflection mode. All measurements were performed in rotation using a large sample cup to reduce the stray light effect caused by varying particle sizes. An overlay of the sample spectra is displayed in Figure 1.</p><h5><strong>Conclusion</strong></h5><p>This Application Note demonstrates the feasibility to determine mechanical properties and perform moisture analysis in fluorinated polyolefins like ETFE using NIRS. In comparison to the standard analytical methods (Table 1), quality control with NIR spectroscopy shows obvious advantages regarding the analysis time. In addition, the sample handling with near-infrared spectroscopy is easier to perform and safer since no chemicals are needed.</p><h4><strong>4. Shimadzu: Quantitative Analysis of Copper Alloys and Differentiation of Sample Types by Matching Function</strong></h4><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_00721_en_8e7c9c733b.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><h5><strong>User Benefits</strong></h5><ul><li>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=220-1&amp;search=EDXRF"><strong>EDXRF</strong></a> has a smaller footprint than the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=220-1&amp;search=WDXRF"><strong>WDXRF</strong></a>, and does not require cooling water or other auxiliary equipment.</li><li>Analyses can be carried out simply without tedious and time-consuming sample preparation because there are few limitations on the sample shape.</li><li>Sample types can be differentiated by using the matching search function provided as a standard feature</li></ul><p>Copper alloys are copper-based alloys which are produced by adding zinc, lead, tin, or other alloying elements to copper to improve machinability, wear resistance, corrosion resistance, or other properties. By composition, copper alloys are classified as the 1000 seriesto the 7000 series. Energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometers (EDXRF) are widely used in applications such as receiving inspections of recycled materials, taking advantage of their excellent operability and simple sample handling, but high-accuracy wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometers (WDXRF) are used mainly in metal manufacturing processes. However, as a result of improvement in the quantitative accuracy of EDXRF in recent years, a wider range of applications, such as use in manufacturing processes, is expected in the future. This article introduces an evaluation of the analytical performance of the Shimadzu <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=EDX-7200"><strong>EDX-7200</strong></a> in an analysis of copper alloys, focusing on the following items.</p><ul><li>Quantitative analysis by the calibration curve method (accuracy of calibration curves, lower limit of quantitation, repeatability)</li><li>FP (fundamental parameter) qualitative/quantitative analysis and matching function</li></ul><h5><strong>Conclusion</strong></h5><p>This article has introduced an evaluation of the analytical performance of the EDX-7200, using copper alloys as an example. In the quantitative analysis by the calibration curve method, repeatability was evaluated, showing that results with high reliability can be obtained. The qualitative/quantitative analysis by the FP method also showed that samples can be differentiated easily by using the matching search function of the EDX-7200. Thus, the EDX-7200 offers a combination of merits. In addition to excellent analytical performance and a small installation footprint, there is no need cooling water or other auxiliary equipment, there are few limitations on the sample shape, and highly accurate analysis of samples even in their original shape is possible. Based on these advantages, It is expected that EDX-7200 will be widely used to replace analysis using WDXRF.</p><h4><strong>5. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Reliable and productive analysis of food samples using single quadrupole ICP-MS&nbsp;</strong></h4><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/AN_003603_Reliable_and_productive_analysis_of_food_samples_using_single_quadrupole_ICP_MS_c68b045824.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) is the technique of choice for accurately measuring toxic elements, especially for analytical testing laboratories. At the same time, it also allows the analysis of major nutritional elements present in concentrations several orders of magnitude higher. However, sample matrix variability and the large sample load usually found in testing laboratories may lead to challenges like unstable internal standard recoveries outside acceptable ranges, quality control failures and drift, rapid degradation of instrument performance. If left unaddressed, these may cause unexpected downtime and interruptions to the overall laboratory productivity.</p><p>This study describes how the Thermo Scientific™<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=3&amp;search=+iCAP+MSX"><strong> iCAP™ MSX</strong></a> ICP-MS instrument, equipped with argon gas dilution (AGD), is able to reliably overcome these challenges and enables seamless multielement analysis of different kinds of food samples with simplicity.</p><h5><strong>Conclusion</strong></h5><p>This study demonstrates how the iCAP MSX ICP-MS fulfils the requirements of food testing laboratories and resolves the typical challenges associated with this sample type. Close to 7,000 food samples were measured in this study over eight weeks where daily sequences ran for more than 12 hours with stable data, negligible analytical drift, excellent internal standard response, and without the need for any maintenance actions.</p><ul><li>The use of AGD allowed effective handling of matrix and compositional variability introduced by widely different food samples, commonly analyzed together on the same day in analytical testing laboratories.</li><li>Accuracy and precision were demonstrated using applicable certified reference materials, which were successfully analyzed and quantified with excellent recoveries.</li><li>High concentrations of nutritional elements were accurately measured alongside accurate quantification of low-level toxic elements in the same samples.</li><li>Specially challenging elements like arsenic, typically expected in the range of a few µg·kg-1 or lower in food samples were measured and quantified using He-KED mode. Mathematical correction using half mass signals was further used to reduce the impact of rare earth elements, potentially present in some samples.</li></ul>

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 8, 2025

<p><strong>In the week from February 17, the following webinars await you in the field of atomic and molecular spectroscopy and spectrometry</strong></p><blockquote><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinars"><strong>👉 DETAILS AND REGISTRATION IN THE WEBINARS SECTION</strong></a></p><p><strong>👉 Search and filter in the largest global database</strong> with over <strong>4 000 GC, LC, MS and spectroscopy webinars</strong>.</p></blockquote><h5 data-start="514" data-end="566"><strong data-start="520" data-end="566">1. Anton Paar: Advanced Scratch Techniques</strong></h5><ul data-start="568" data-end="622"><li data-start="568" data-end="607">Tuesday, February 18, 2025, 20:00 CET</li><li data-start="608" data-end="622"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/4451">Registration</a></li></ul><p data-start="624" data-end="781">In this webinar of our Scratch Series, we introduce advanced quantitative techniques to deepen your understanding of material behavior under scratch testing.</p><h5 data-start="783" data-end="898"><strong data-start="789" data-end="898">2. New Food Magazine/Bruker: Enhancing Food Safety Labs with Rapid Detection of Salmonella, Listeria, and Moulds</strong></h5><ul data-start="900" data-end="956"><li data-start="900" data-end="941">Wednesday, February 19, 2025, 16:00 CET</li><li data-start="942" data-end="956"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/4723">Registration</a></li></ul><p data-start="958" data-end="1105">This webinar focuses on advanced methodologies for detecting microorganisms, including rapid techniques such as MALDI-TOF MS and FTIR-spectroscopy.</p><h5 data-start="1107" data-end="1164"><strong data-start="1113" data-end="1164">3. Agilent Technologies: Molecular Spectroscopy</strong></h5><ul data-start="1166" data-end="1221"><li data-start="1166" data-end="1206">Thursday, February 20, 2025, 04:00 CET</li><li data-start="1207" data-end="1221"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/4673">Registration</a></li></ul><p data-start="1223" data-end="1324">In this second session, we will talk about the analysis of microplastics in the environment and food.</p><h5 data-start="1326" data-end="1490"><strong data-start="1332" data-end="1490">4. Separation Science/Agilent Technologies: Eco-Friendly Extraction Methods for Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling and Elemental Analysis of Impurities in Recovered Metal Sulphates</strong></h5><ul data-start="1492" data-end="1547"><li data-start="1492" data-end="1532">Thursday, February 20, 2025, 11:00 CET</li><li data-start="1533" data-end="1547"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/4708">Registration</a></li></ul><p data-start="1549" data-end="1744">Join us for an insightful webinar on sustainable lithium-ion battery recycling! Discover greener solvents and learn how ICP-OES seamlessly handles alternatives to traditional inorganic solutions.</p><h5 data-start="1746" data-end="1852"><strong data-start="1752" data-end="1852">5. Agilent Technologies: Tips and Tricks on ICP-OES for Best Detection Limits and Less Carryover</strong></h5><ul data-start="1854" data-end="1909"><li data-start="1854" data-end="1894">Thursday, February 20, 2025, 19:00 CET</li><li data-start="1895" data-end="1909"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/3162">Registration</a></li></ul><p data-start="1911" data-end="2041">Learn all the tips and tricks and select proper components of an ICP-OES sample introduction system to optimize your data quality.</p>

Webinars LabRulezICPMS Week 8/2025

<p><strong>Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 24th February 2025? Check out new documents from the field of spectroscopy/spectrometry and related techniques!</strong></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-size:20px;">👉 </span><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library"><span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>SEARCH THE LARGEST REPOSITORY OF DOCUMENTS ABOUT SPECTROSCOPY/SPECTROMETRY RELATED TECHNIQUES</strong></span></a></p></blockquote><blockquote><p><strong>👉 Need info about different analytical techniques?</strong> Peek into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library"><strong>LabRulezLCMS</strong></a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library"><strong>LabRulezGCMS</strong></a> libraries.</p></blockquote><p>This week we bring you application notes by <strong>Agilent Technologies,&nbsp;Bruker, Metrohm, Shimadzu </strong>and<strong> Thermo Fisher Scientific!</strong></p><h4><strong>1. Agilent Technologies: Sustainable Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling: Recovery of Metals in Green Solvents by ICP-OES</strong></h4><h5><strong>Fast analysis of deep eutectic solvents using Agilent </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=1&amp;search=5800+VDV"><strong>5800 VDV</strong></a><strong> ICP-OES with switching valve</strong></h5><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_green_solvent_battery_recycling_5800_icp_oes_5994_8017en_agilent_d95e03655d.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>Currently, two primary industrial processes are used for recycling spent LIBs: pyrometallurgy and hydrometallurgy. Pyrometallurgy involves the high-temperature extraction of metals, which is energy demanding and yields relatively poor-quality output.<sup>3</sup> Hydrometallurgy requires the use of numerous extractants and a longer process but achieves better metal recoveries than pyrometallurgy.<sup>3</sup> However, the hydrometallurgical process produces large quantities of acidic and alkaline wastewater, which can threaten the environment if not properly managed.<sup>3</sup></p><p>Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) are an emerging class of green solvents that offer a novel solution for LIB recycling. Made from mixtures of biodegradable components, DESs are easy to prepare, inexpensive, nontoxic, and reusable.<sup>4</sup> Scientists are actively investigating how the unique properties of DESs can be used to efficiently leach critical metals from spent LIBs.<sup>4</sup> To verify the effectiveness of DESs in terms of metal-recovery rates, researchers often use a multi-element analytical technique such as inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). However, analyzing leached metals in DESs by ICP-OES is not without its challenges. The high Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) matrix samples can cause wear on the sample introductory system, potentially introducing errors in the results. There is also a need for a wide Linear Dynamic Range (LDR), as the elemental profile of end-of-life LIBs can vary greatly.</p><p>The Agilent 5800 Vertical Dual View (VDV) ICP-OES is widely used to determine metals and other elements in LIB battery materials.<sup>5</sup> Designed for robustness and stability, the 5800 enables the fast, simultaneous measurement of over 70 elements in many sample types. The wide LDR of the instrument’s Vista Chip III detector enables a range of elements to be analyzed in the same sample, avoiding the need to perform multiple dilutions.<sup>6</sup> This field-proven instrument uses advanced tools and accessories to support the development of new methods, making it ideal for LIB recycling initiatives, such as facilitating the recovery of valuable metals using DESs.&nbsp;</p><p>In this application, the 5800 VDV ICP-OES was used to determine eight representative elements of spent LIBs spiked in a choline chloride and urea (ChCl:Urea) DES solution. The analytes aluminum (Al), Co, copper (Cu), iron (Fe), Li, manganese (Mn), Ni, and phosphorus (P) were selected based on their presence in various types of cathode active materials (CAMs).&nbsp;</p><h4><strong>Conclusion</strong></h4><p>The Agilent 5800 VDV ICP-OES with the integrated AVS 7 switching valve effectively determined valuable LIB-related elements in DES. Leaching metals from end-of-life LIBs using DESs offers a more sustainable alternative to traditional metallurgical processes for battery recycling. Under the control of Agilent ICP Expert Pro software, the 5800 enabled the fast, robust, and accurate analysis of eight representative elements of LIBs in a spiked ChCl:Urea DES solution. The following hardware and software tools were used to ensure the quality of the quantitative data:</p><ul><li>IntelliQuant Screening streamlined method development by recommending optimal calibration ranges and interference-free wavelengths for all analytes, ensuring accurate analysis of analytes in DESs.</li><li>The AVS 7 improved sample throughput requiring only 41 s per sample compared to 90 s without the AVS. It also minimized costs by lowering argon consumption to 9.8 L per sample and less frequent cleaning of consumables such as the torch and nebulizer.</li><li>FBC automatically corrected the background structures for Al, Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, and P and FACT deconvoluted the Li peak from more complex background spectra.&nbsp;</li></ul><p>The accuracy of the 5800 ICP-OES method was confirmed by recoveries of all analytes spiked at high and low levels in DES, with results within 100 ±10%. Excellent long-term stability was demonstrated when 645 solutions were analyzed over seven hours. Recoveries of the QCs and spiked DES samples were within ±10% of the expected values. Good precision was achieved for the spiked DES sample measurements, with RSDs ≤2.2% for all elements. The performance of the 5800 VDV ICP-OES with AVS 7 demonstrates its suitability for the fast, quantitative analysis of critical LIB-related elements such as Co, Mn, and Li in complex matrices like ChCl:Urea DES.</p><h4><strong>2. Bruker: Analysis of Pet Food with FT-NIR Spectroscopy</strong></h4><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/AN_N308_Petfood_EN_a5a1ea8cdd.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>Pets are today an important part of peoples lives. Therefore consumers trust in brands which guarantee the best quality for their individual animal, since pets of different breed, size and age often need a special nutrient profile in their diet. Pet food producers have to provide a vast amount of different products, produced at an acceptable cost.&nbsp;</p><h5><strong>From raw materials to finished pet food</strong></h5><p>The biggest challenge in pet food production is to keep track of the different recipes depending on the availability of the expensive raw materials. Depending on origin and season, they often show huge batch-to-batch variability; nevertheless, feeding the least cost formulation programs with valid compositional data is essential and a fast and accurate analysis, providing results in seconds can help keeping track of the production process.</p><p>Near infrared spectroscopy is used in agriculture for many decades for the analysis of main constituents like moisture, fat and protein. It is fast and safe, since it requires little to no sample preparation, nor hazardous chemicals or gases. This makes a quick test of the incoming raw material using FT-NIR available even to production staff, before processing the materials and also allows a fast way of testing the final material before packaging.</p><h5><strong>Easy sampling and measurement</strong></h5><p>Solid samples like like raw materials and finished pet food are filled in cups with a quartz glass bottom, placed on the integrating sphere of the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=10&amp;search=MPA+II"><strong>MPA II</strong></a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=10&amp;search=TANGO-R"><strong>TANGO-R</strong></a> spectrometer and measured from below. This way, the product has an even surface and for highly reproducible results, it is rotated during the measurement. Liquid samples like oils and fats are are simply filled in 8mm glass vials and are measured in the sample compartment of the MPA II or TANGO-T.</p><h4><strong>3. Metrohm: Polyethylene content determination in polypropylene pellets by NIRS</strong></h4><h5><strong>Rapid analysis of recycled polyolefins</strong></h5><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_nir_124_download_db3dcba358.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>Next to polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) is the most widely used plastic worldwide. Recycling these polyolefins is problematic, since it is challenging to separate polyethylene from polypropylene using sink float separation. Increasing PE content in PP leads to a poor interfacial bond strength which could negatively impact the mechanical properties of the final molded product.</p><p>An efficient method to determine the polyolefin composition based on near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) analysis is presented in this Application Note. The main advantage is the short time to result. Compared to the time-consuming standard method (i.e., Differential Scanning Calorimetry or DSC), the analysis of polyethylene content in polypropylene using near-infrared spectroscopy is performed in just seconds.</p><h4><strong>Experimental equipment</strong></h4><p>Different polymer blends (n = 54) with varying polyethylene content from 0.5–35% were produced in a compounder. The polyethylene content was determined by weighing before the polymer blends were produced. All measurements on the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=56&amp;search=OMNIS+NIR"><strong>OMNIS NIR</strong></a> Analyzer Solid (Figure 1) were performed in rotation using a large sample cup to average the subsample spectra. This sample setup reduces the influence of the particle size distribution of the polymer particles.</p><h4><strong>Conclusion</strong></h4><p>This Application Note shows the feasibility of NIR spectroscopy for the analysis of polyolefins. Detecting PE concentrations below 5% with the standard Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) method can be challenging and time consuming. Compared to DSC measurements (Table 2), near-infrared analysis saves significant time: one sample measurement is performed in a couple of seconds. Next to PE content, physical parameters like density can also be determined with NIRS.&nbsp;</p><h4><strong>4. Shimadzu: Three-Point Bending Fatigue Tests of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic Using the </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=SEM+Servopulser"><strong>SEM Servopulser</strong></a></h4><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_00793_en_a50aabfd66.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p><strong>User Benefits:</strong></p><ul><li>The SEM Servopulser can perform three-point bending fatigue tests of carbon fiber reinforced plastic.</li><li>The SEM Servopulser can also be used to observe fatigue cracks.</li><li>High-accuracy dynamic control can be achieved with the Servo Controller 4830</li></ul><p>Carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) has high specific strength and stiffness and is widely used in various industrial fields, including transport vehicles. In order to ascertain its long-term reliability and durability as a structural material, it is necessary to evaluate it for fatigue, one of the main causes of structural failure. However, since CFRP is composed of two types of materials, carbon fibers and matrix resin, it exhibits complex behaviors in failure, such as matrix cracking, inter-layer delamination,and fiber rupture.</p><p>This article describes bending fatigue tests that used the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=Servopulser+EHF-L"><strong>Servopulser EHF-L</strong></a> tabletop dynamic and fatigue testing system. The extension of cracks during the fatigue tests was observed using the SEM Servopulser, a high-temperature fatigue testing machine with a scanning electron microscope.</p><h4><strong>Conclusion</strong></h4><p>Bending fatigue tests were performed on CFRP using a fatigue testing system, and the resulting S-N curve was compiled. Then the conditions were set on the SEM Servopulser based on the SN curve obtained, and damage to the test specimen was observed during the test. By changing the magnification on the SEM, it was possible to observe the damage location on the test specimen in detail. As the test progressed, it was possible to clearly observe how the damage progressed. In this way, the SEM Servopulser demonstrated it can assist in evaluating the fatigue properties of composite materials,such as CFRP.&nbsp;</p><h4><strong>5. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Measurement of traces of heavy metals in cosmetic raw materials and finished products according to ISO/DIS 21392:2021 using triple quadrupole ICP-MS</strong></h4><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/AN_003602_Measurement_of_traces_of_heavy_metals_in_cosmetic_raw_materials_and_finished_products_according_to_ISO_DIS_21392_2021_using_triple_quadrupole_ICP_MS_c71fff2bcc.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>This application note highlights a complete and comprehensive workflow for the analysis of heavy metals in different types of cosmetic products, including raw materials, and will demonstrate the need to use triple quadrupole ICP-MS technology to achieve complete interference removal. As described in ISO/DIS 21392:2021, the samples were prepared using a microwave system prior to analysis.</p><h4><strong>Experimental</strong></h4><p>A Thermo Scientific™ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=2&amp;search=iCAP%E2%84%A2+MTX+"><strong>iCAP™ MTX </strong></a>ICP-MS and a Thermo Scientific™<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=2&amp;search=+iSC-65"><strong> iSC-65</strong></a> autosampler were used for analysis. The ICP-MS was operated using the parameters highlighted in Table 1. Due to the great variability of total dissolved solids (TDS) used in cosmetic matrices, the instrument was operated using Argon Gas Dilution (AGD). Thus, all calibration standards and samples were automatically diluted approximately five times to ensure analytical robustness for all sample types, such as raw materials and finished products. Due to the potential presence of interferences, the iCAP MTX ICP-MS was operated in collision (SQ-KED) and reaction (TQ-O2) modes to remove polyatomic and isobaric interferences, and to reach the best quantification limits for critical elements.</p><h4><strong>Conclusion</strong></h4><p>As the demand for cosmetic products continues to grow worldwide, the testing of raw materials and finished cosmetic products becomes a key activity to ensure consumer safety with respect to exposure to potentially toxic heavy metals. Maintaining stringent safety standards remains a priority to protect consumer health and uphold the reputation of the industry. The proposed method provides a powerful and reliable option for both manufacturers as well as testing laboratories to obtain high quality data in combination with the often-required productivity. It ensures regulatory compliance with ISO/DIS 21392:2021, but also provides valuable insights as also other elements, currently not under regulation, can be determined free from interferences and potential biases.</p><p><strong>Some key advantages are summarized below:</strong></p><ul><li>The automated sample preparation with the combination of the EasyFILL Acid Delivery and the ultraWAVE SRC microwave system ensures an efficient and reproducible method for the acid digestion of the cosmetic samples.</li><li>EasyAGD delivers a constant and automatic 5-times dilution for all samples, which allows laboratories to analyze finished products as well as raw materials in the same batch with excellent robustness.</li><li>The use of the iCAP MTX ICP-MS allows the leveraging of oxygen as a reactive gas in TQ-O2 mode to overcome critical interferences and to obtain the lower quantification limits required by the regulation for highly toxic heavy metals.</li><li>The presence of high concentrations of tungsten, tin, and zirconium in certain raw materials can create isobaric and polyatomic interferences on toxic heavy metals such as mercury and cadmium. The use of TQ-O2 mode guarantees excellent method accuracy for all sample types.</li><li>Workflows can be further streamlined using innovative features such as the Get Ready process for automatic and scheduled plasma start. The Thermo Scientific™ Hawk™ Consumables and Maintenance Assistant within Qtegra ISDS Software allows contract testing laboratories to ensure all maintenance activities are accomplished before unexpected downtime of the system impacts laboratory productivity.</li></ul>

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 9, 2025

<p><strong>In recent years, the spotlight on the safety of baby food has intensified, driven by growing concerns about toxic heavy metals like arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury. These elements, even in low concentrations, pose significant health risks to infants and toddlers, whose developing bodies are particularly vulnerable. As regulatory standards tighten, advanced analytical techniques such as inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) have emerged as crucial tools in ensuring baby food meets stringent safety and nutritional benchmarks.</strong></p><h4><strong>The importance of monitoring heavy metals in baby food</strong></h4><p>Heavy metals can make their way into baby food through environmental contamination, agricultural practices, or industrial processes. For instance:</p><ul><li><strong>Lead</strong> can leach from soil into crops.</li><li><strong>Arsenic</strong> is often present in rice and rice-based products due to its natural occurrence in water and soil.</li><li><strong>Mercury</strong> can accumulate in fish and seafood.</li><li><strong>Cadmium</strong> is introduced via contaminated soil or fertilizers.</li></ul><p>Even trace amounts of these metals can lead to neurological damage, developmental delays, and other long-term health issues. Regulatory bodies like the FDA and the European Union have established maximum permissible levels for these toxic elements. For example, the Baby Food Safety Act of 2021 in the U.S. mandates maximum limits such as 10 µg/kg for inorganic arsenic and 5 µg/kg for lead in baby food products.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Ensuring_Baby_Food_Safety_Tackling_Toxic_Metals_with_Advanced_Technology_275fac6f68.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: Ensuring Baby Food Safety - Tackling Toxic Metals with Advanced Technology" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Ensuring_Baby_Food_Safety_Tackling_Toxic_Metals_with_Advanced_Technology_275fac6f68.jpg 239w," sizes="100vw" width="1536" height="1006"></p><h4><strong>The role of ICP-MS in baby food safety</strong></h4><p>To comply with these regulations, manufacturers require robust analytical methods that offer high sensitivity, precision, and reproducibility. ICP-MS, particularly when paired with advanced sample preparation techniques, has become the gold standard for detecting and quantifying both toxic and essential trace elements in baby food.</p><h4><strong>A streamlined workflow</strong></h4><p>A recent study showcased a comprehensive workflow using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1488"><strong>Thermo Scientific™ iCAP™ MTX ICP-MS</strong></a> system:</p><ul><li><strong>Sample preparation</strong>: Baby food samples, ranging from dry powders to high-fat and high-moisture items, were processed using microwave-assisted acid digestion. This method ensures uniform preparation and minimizes manual handling.</li><li><strong>Automated dilution</strong>: The system’s argon gas dilution (AGD) capability allowed for a consistent five-fold dilution of all samples, accommodating a wide variety of matrices without compromising detection sensitivity.</li><li><strong>Interference management:</strong> By leveraging triple quadrupole modes with reactive gases, the ICP-MS effectively suppressed polyatomic and isobaric interferences, ensuring accurate results even for challenging elements like arsenic and mercury.</li><li><strong>Quality control: </strong>Calibration curves and internal standard checks maintained accuracy throughout the analysis, with all results aligning within regulatory limits.</li></ul><h4><strong>Key findings</strong></h4><p>The study analyzed six baby food products, including fruit purees, cereal, yogurt, and fish-based meals. While most samples adhered to safety standards, certain findings highlighted areas for further attention:</p><ul><li><strong>Arsenic:</strong> Elevated levels were detected in salmon-based purees, attributed to organic arsenic compounds naturally present in fish.</li><li><strong>Cadmium and lead: </strong>Slightly elevated levels in carrot-based products underscore the need for rigorous soil testing and monitoring.</li></ul><h4><strong>Benefits of advanced ICP-MS analysis</strong></h4><p>Beyond regulatory compliance, ICP-MS offers additional advantages:</p><ul><li><strong>Nutritional assessment: </strong>Simultaneous analysis of essential nutrients like calcium, iron, and zinc ensures baby food supports healthy growth.</li><li><strong>Efficiency and productivity:</strong> The automated workflow minimizes operator intervention, making it suitable for high-throughput laboratories.</li><li><strong>Reliability:</strong> Consistent results across diverse sample types build confidence in food safety and quality.</li></ul><h4><strong>Conclusion</strong></h4><p>Ensuring the safety of baby food is not just a regulatory requirement—it’s a responsibility to protect the youngest and most vulnerable members of our society. By harnessing the power of ICP-MS, manufacturers can confidently address both safety concerns and nutritional needs, delivering products that parents can trust. As technology continues to evolve, such advancements promise a future where baby food safety is guaranteed, one analysis at a time.</p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/cz/en/home/industrial/mass-spectrometry/inductively-coupled-plasma-mass-spectrometry-icp-ms/quadrupole-icp-ms-systems.html"><strong>Explore more</strong></a><strong>: </strong>Learn how the Thermo Scientific iCAP MTX ICP-MS system is setting new standards in trace metals analysis for food safety.</p>

Ensuring Baby Food Safety: Tackling Toxic Metals with Advanced Technology

Petr Viewegh’s Microcosm and Macrocosm

<p><strong>We recently received a comment from a reader regarding a previous article, </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/blog/metals/analyzing-304-and-321-steel-for-pmi-on-pipelines/"><i><strong>Analyzing 304 and 321 Steel for PMI on Piping Systems.</strong></i></a><strong> The reader wrote: “This is a really informative piece! I didn’t realize there was such a difference between 304 and 321 steel, especially in terms of resistance to corrosion at higher temperatures. How often is Positive Material Identification (PMI) testing conducted in industries like oil and gas to help ensure the correct material is used?</strong></p><p>Here’s a summary, for those readers not familiar with the article.&nbsp; Scroll below for a list of resources to learn more about PMI in the oil and gas industry.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Reader_Question_Addressed_Resources_for_PMI_in_the_Oil_and_Gas_Industry_41d08937ce.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: Reader Question Addressed: Resources for PMI in the Oil and Gas Industry." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Reader_Question_Addressed_Resources_for_PMI_in_the_Oil_and_Gas_Industry_41d08937ce.jpg 235w," sizes="100vw" width="2121" height="1414"></p><h3><strong>Recap</strong></h3><p>Ensuring the integrity and safety of pipelines is critical, particularly in industries such as oil and gas. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/industrial/spectroscopy-elemental-isotope-analysis/portable-analysis-material-id/portable-metal-manufacturing-inspection-recycling-solutions/positive-material-identification-oil-gas.html">Positive Material Identification</a> (PMI) plays a crucial role in verifying that the correct materials are used, helping to prevent catastrophic failures. Two commonly used stainless steels in these applications are 304 and 321 steel.&nbsp;304 stainless steel is known for its excellent corrosion resistance and formability, making it versatile and cost-effective for various applications, including piping and heat exchangers. On the other hand, 321 stainless steel, which includes titanium, offers enhanced resistance to intergranular corrosion, making it ideal for high-temperature environments like aerospace and petrochemical industries.</p><p>PMI helps ensure that materials meet the required specifications through advanced analytical techniques that help verify the chemical composition of the materials, helping to prevent the use of incorrect or substandard materials. These techniques include:</p><ul><li style="text-align:left;">Handheld <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/industrial/spectroscopy-elemental-isotope-analysis/spectroscopy-elemental-isotope-analysis-learning-center/elemental-analysis-information/xrf-technology.html?icid=CAD_blog_metals_2020April" aria-label="XRF (X-Ray Fluorescence) spectroscopy - open in a new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="">XRF (X-Ray Fluorescence) spectroscopy</a> is a non-destructive method that uses X-rays to determine the elemental composition of materials. It is quick and provides accurate results, making it ideal for field use.</li><li style="text-align:left;"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/industrial/spectroscopy-elemental-isotope-analysis/portable-analysis-material-id/industrial-elemental-radiation-solutions/how-does-libs-work.html?icid=CAD_blog_metals_2022April">LIBS technology</a> (Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) is an analytical technique used to determine the elemental composition of materials, and is especially used for calculating carbon equivalency.</li><li style="text-align:left;">Optical emission spectroscopy (OES) is a method that involves sparking the material and analyzing the emitted light to determine its composition. OES is highly accurate and can detect a wide range of elements, but it is a heavy instrument to use in the field.</li></ul><h3><strong>PMI Resources</strong></h3><p>To help better understand how PMI is used in the oil and gas industry, here is a collection of articles and resources:</p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/industrial/spectroscopy-elemental-isotope-analysis/portable-analysis-material-id/portable-metal-manufacturing-inspection-recycling-solutions/positive-material-identification-oil-gas.html?erpType=Global_E1#menu4">Portable Power Generation / Oil and Gas (PMI) Resources</a> (includes webinars, videos, application notes, etc.)</li><li>Application notes:<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://assets.thermofisher.com/TFS-Assets/CAD/Application-Notes/niton-apollo-carbon-equivalency.pdf">Carbon equivalents in steel components</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="http://assets.thermofisher.com/TFS-Assets/CAD/Application-Notes/xl5-silicon-corrosion-app-note.pdf">Preventing sulfidic corrosion failures</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://assets.thermofisher.com/TFS-Assets/CAD/Application-Notes/Analysis-of-Residual-Elements-in-Steel-Pipe.pdf">Identifying residual elements in steel piping</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="http://assets.thermofisher.com/TFS-Assets/CAD/Application-Notes/xl5-power-plant-fac-app-note.pdf">Power plant FAC inspection protocol</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://tools.thermofisher.com/content/sfs/brochures/XL5-MicroalloySteels-App-Note-2016-FINAL.pdf">Analysis of microalloying elements in steel</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://assets.thermofisher.com/TFS-Assets/CAD/Application-Notes/IJ-Custom-PDF-Brian-Wilson-ThermoFisher-JulyAug-2016.pdf">Conducting retroactive PMI</a></li></ul></li><li>Free Webinars and Videos:<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://players.brightcove.net/665001591001/I9XluuSon_default/index.html?videoId=6024330156001">API 578 (3rd edition)</a> – Guidelines for a material verification program</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/4821">Why Is analyzing carbon important?</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/4822">Latest developments in PMI technologies</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://players.brightcove.net/665001591001/default_default/index.html?videoId=6340816364112">Geothermal Power Generation&nbsp;</a></li></ul></li><li>eBooks:<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/global/forms/industrial/xrf-ebook-download-request.html?icid=CAD_FSI_XRFeBook_ScrapRecycling">XRF technology for non-scientists</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/global/forms/industrial/fsi-libs-ebook-download-request.html?icid=CAD_blog_metals_2021Jan">LIBS technology for non-scientists</a></li></ul></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/blog/metals/positive-material-identification/">Additional PMI blog articles</a></li></ul><p>And if you want to see workers in action conducting PMI, check out the photos in this article:<br><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/blog/mining/oil-and-gas-pmi-crews-in-action-photo-gallery/">Oil and Gas PMI Crews in Action – Photo Gallery.</a></p>

Reader Question Addressed: Resources for PMI in the Oil and Gas Industry

<p><strong>In the week from February 24, the following webinars await you in the field of atomic and molecular spectroscopy and spectrometry</strong></p><blockquote><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinars"><strong>👉 DETAILS AND REGISTRATION IN THE WEBINARS SECTION</strong></a></p><p><strong>👉 Search and filter in the largest global database</strong> with over <strong>4 000 GC, LC, MS and spectroscopy webinars</strong>.</p></blockquote><h5><strong data-start="2559" data-end="2651">1. C&amp;EN/Repligen: </strong><strong>Real-Time, Dilution-Free Concentration Measurement Using Variable Pathlength Spectroscopy for Biopharmaceutical Workflows</strong></h5><ul data-start="2653" data-end="2689"><li data-start="2653" data-end="2676">Tu, 25.2.2025</li><li data-start="2677" data-end="2689"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/4725">Registration</a></li></ul><p data-start="2691" data-end="2792">The new CTech™ SoloVPE® PLUS, which utilizes variable pathlength technology to enable dilution-free, real-time concentration measurements across a wide range of analytes will be introduced.</p><h5><strong data-start="2559" data-end="2651">2. Agilent Technologies: Detecting Microplastics in Cannabis: An Analysis Using LDIR Spectroscopy</strong></h5><ul data-start="2653" data-end="2689"><li data-start="2653" data-end="2676">Tu, 25.2.2025</li><li data-start="2677" data-end="2689"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/2772">Registration</a></li></ul><p data-start="2691" data-end="2792">Detecting Microplastics in Cannabis: An Analysis Using LDIR Spectroscopy.</p><h5><strong data-start="2559" data-end="2651">3. Agilent Technologies: Trace Level Elemental Analysis of Metals in Drinking Water by ICP-MS According to Directive (EU) 2020/2184</strong></h5><ul data-start="2653" data-end="2689"><li data-start="2653" data-end="2676">We, 26.2.2025</li><li data-start="2677" data-end="2689"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/4711">Registration</a></li></ul><p data-start="2691" data-end="2792">A complete workflow from sample introduction to the final reporting highlighting exemplary results showing how the mandated LOQs detailed in the EU regulation can be met by modern analytical laboratories.</p><h5><strong data-start="2334" data-end="2423">4. Wiley: Advances in Spectral Identification: SmartSpectra, Classifications, &amp; More!</strong></h5><ul data-start="2425" data-end="2462"><li data-start="2425" data-end="2449">We, 26.2.2025</li><li data-start="2450" data-end="2462"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/4789">Registration</a></li></ul><p data-start="2464" data-end="2557">This webinar covers the latest advances in spectral analysis, including Wiley’s KnowItAll models, SmartSpectra, and functional group analysis tools.</p><h5><strong data-start="2118" data-end="2206">5. Bruker: Explore Automated Workflows with the Fourier 80 Benchtop NMR Spectrometer</strong></h5><ul data-start="2208" data-end="2245"><li data-start="2208" data-end="2232">We, 26.2.2025</li><li data-start="2233" data-end="2245"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/4680">Registration</a></li></ul><p data-start="2247" data-end="2332">Explore automated workflows with the Fourier 80 benchtop NMR spectrometer.</p><h5><strong data-start="1904" data-end="1995">6. Mettler-Toledo: Live Webinar: Characterization of Thermoplastics by Thermal Analysis</strong></h5><ul data-start="1997" data-end="2035"><li data-start="1997" data-end="2022">Th, 27.2.2025</li><li data-start="2023" data-end="2035"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/4553">Registration</a></li></ul><p data-start="2037" data-end="2116">Unlock the secrets of your thermoplastics with essential thermal analysis techniques.</p><h5><strong data-start="1733" data-end="1798">7. Bruker: The New Future of Micro-CT and 3D X-Ray Microscopy</strong></h5><ul data-start="1800" data-end="1838"><li data-start="1800" data-end="1825">Th, 27.2.2025</li><li data-start="1826" data-end="1838"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/4718">Registration</a></li></ul><p data-start="1840" data-end="1902">Discover the new, enhanced 3D imaging system.</p><h5><strong data-start="1402" data-end="1499">8. Bruker: Biomechanical Analysis of Tissues, Organoids, and 3D Cellular Structures using AFM</strong></h5><ul data-start="1501" data-end="1539"><li data-start="1501" data-end="1526">Th, 27.2.2025</li><li data-start="1527" data-end="1539"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/4771">Registration</a></li></ul><p data-start="1541" data-end="1731">Join us and special guest speaker Dr. Lydia Powell, Swansea University Medical School, for this webinar on the Biomechanical Analysis of Tissues, Organoids, and 3D Cellular Structures using AFM.</p>

Webinars LabRulezICPMS Week 9/2025

<p><strong>In the week from March 3, the following webinars await you in the field of atomic and molecular spectroscopy and spectrometry</strong></p><blockquote><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinars"><strong>👉 DETAILS AND REGISTRATION IN THE WEBINARS SECTION</strong></a></p><p><strong>👉 Search and filter in the largest global database</strong> with over <strong>4 000 GC, LC, MS and spectroscopy webinars</strong>.</p></blockquote><h5><strong data-start="2559" data-end="2651">1. Anton Paar: Battery Materials</strong></h5><ul data-start="2653" data-end="2689"><li data-start="2653" data-end="2676">Tu, 4.3.2025 19:00 CET</li><li data-start="2677" data-end="2689"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/4453">Registration</a></li></ul><p data-start="2691" data-end="2792">This webinar highlights the critical role of mechanical property testing in evaluating the performance and reliability of battery materials.</p><h5><strong data-start="2559" data-end="2651">2. Agilent Technologies: Lithium-Ion Battery Industry Chain: Quality Control Insights from Elemental Analysis of High TDS Raw Materials and More by ICP-OES</strong></h5><ul data-start="2653" data-end="2689"><li data-start="2653" data-end="2676">Tu, 4.3.2025 21:30 (CET)</li><li data-start="2677" data-end="2689"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/2441">Registration</a></li></ul><p>During this talk, a review of data collected from ICP-OES on various battery materials will be discussed with special emphasis on high TDS samples.</p>

Webinars LabRulezICPMS Week 10/2025

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Reader Question Addressed: Resources for PMI in the Oil and Gas Industry

Webinars LabRulezICPMS Week 10/2025

Ensuring Baby Food Safety: Tackling Toxic Metals with Advanced Technology

Petr Viewegh’s Microcosm and Macrocosm

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 9, 2025

Webinars LabRulezICPMS Week 9/2025

Ondřej Havelka: Laser can get rid of the chemistry of the beakers

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 8, 2025

Webinars LabRulezICPMS Week 8/2025

Pavel Plevka: I only give my team colleagues projects that I would be happy to work on myself

Upcoming events

LECO Training Course CS-744/844 Series

42nd Informal Meeting on Mass Spectrometry

SETAC Europe 36th Annual Meeting

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TOC Determination in Soil and Waste

Time to Go PRO: Discover the future of ICP-OES analysis

Cement Clinker Preparation and Microscopic Examination