Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 29th December 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 LECO, Metrohm and Shimadzu!<h3>1. LECO: Determination of Nitrogen/Protein in Cheese</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/FP_928_NITROGEN_PROTEIN_CHEESE_203_821_673_db228174b4.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Protein is one of the most significant nutrient components in cheese. The accurate and precise determination of protein not only plays a role in the characterization of the nutritional value of cheese but is also key in determining the economic value of different cheeses. A rapid and precise method for the determination of total protein in cheese provides a vital quality and process control procedure.&nbsp;Protein in cheese is most commonly calculated using the measured total Nitrogen content in the sample and a multiplier or protein conversion factor (typically 6.38). Protein conversion factors vary depending on the sample matrix. Nitrogen determination in organic materials is performed using either a classical wet chemical method (Kjeldahl), or a combustion method (Dumas). The Kjeldahl method involves sample digestion, distillation, and ammonia determination typically by titration. This method involves time-consuming sample preparation and the use of hazardous materials. The LECO FP928 is a Nitrogen determinator that utilizes an automated combustion (Dumas) method and provides accurate and precise results in approximately five minutes. This eliminates involved sample preparation and the use of hazardous materials resulting in a rapid, cost-effective method for the quality control of cheese production.&nbsp;<h4>Instrument Model and Configuration&nbsp;</h4>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=25&amp;search=FP928">FP928</a> is a macro combustion Nitrogen/Protein determinator that utilizes a pure Oxygen environment in a high-temperature horizontal ceramic combustion furnace, utilizing ceramic boats designed to handle macro sample masses (~1.0 g). A thermoelectric cooler removes moisture from the combustion gases before they are collected in a ballast. The gases equilibrate and mix 3 in the ballast before a representative aliquot (3 cm or 3 10 cm volume) of the gas is extracted and introduced into a flowing stream of inert carrier gas (Helium or Argon) for analysis. The aliquot of gas is carried through a heated reduction tube, filled with Copper, to convert Nitrogen Oxide combustion gas species (NO2) to Nitrogen (Nx). The aliquot gas is then carried to a thermal conductivity cell (TC) for the detection of Nitrogen (N2). Thermal conductivity detectors work by detecting changes in the thermal conductivity of the analyte gas compared to a reference/carrier gas. The greater the difference between the thermal conductivity of the carrier gas and the analyte gas, the greater the sensitivity of the detector. The FP928 supports either the use of Helium or Argon as the instrument's carrier gas. When used as a carrier gas, Helium provides the highest sensitivity, and the best performance at the lower limit of the Nitrogen range. The thermal conductivity difference between Argon and Nitrogen is not as great as the thermal conductivity difference between Helium and Nitrogen; therefore, the detector is inherently less sensitive when using Argon as a carrier gas.<h4>Analysis Considerations&nbsp;</h4>The combustion of cheese samples with a high-fat content can result in some degree of sooting. The primary filter tube (glass and steel wool) should be monitored for signs of sooting. If soot is observed in the glass and steel wool within the primary filter tube, reduce the sample mass to prevent this soot build-up, and change the glass and steel wool as necessary. The combustion of cheese samples can also result in the formation of salts; therefore, it is important to monitor the primary filter tube for signs of excessive corrosion of the steel wool and change it as necessary (approximately every 50 cheese samples). In addition, the autoloader arm should be inspected and cleaned on a regular basis when analyzing cheese products.<h3>2. Metrohm: Analysis of fabric softeners and laundry perfumes with NIR spectroscopy</h3>Determination of dry matter, pH, and viscosity in seconds<ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_nir_136_download_0bff06e8c8.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Fabric softeners and laundry perfumes (concentrated fragrances) are a category of personal care/laundry products used for their ability to make textiles softer, smoother, and more pleasantly scented after the washing cycle. A variety of raw materials is necessary to manufacture these products, and different analytical methods are often required before production can commence. Traditional analysis requires time-consuming methods. This Application Note describes how viscosity, dry matter content, and pH level of fabric softeners and laundry perfumes are measured with near-infrared spectroscopy. Nearinfrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is a fast, chemical-free analysis technique for quality control of fabric softeners and laundry perfumes without sample preparation.<h4>EXPERIMENTAL EQUIPMENT&nbsp;</h4>Fabric softener and laundry perfume samples were measured with an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=56&amp;search=OMNIS+NIR">OMNIS NIR</a> Analyzer Solid (Figure 1) in transflection mode (1000–2250 nm) using a 1 mm gap size reflector and 28 mm disposable vials. Reference values of dry matter were measured by loss on drying, and pH and viscosity were determined with a pH meter and viscometer, respectively. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=56&amp;search=OMNIS+Software">OMNIS Software</a> was used for all data acquisition and prediction model development.<h4>RESULT</h4>The obtained NIR spectra (Figure 2) were used to create prediction models for quantification of dry matter, pH value, and viscosity. The quality of the prediction models was evaluated using correlation diagrams (Figures 3–5) which display a very high correlation between the NIR prediction and the reference values. The respective figures of merit (FOM) display the expected precision of a prediction during routine analysis.<h4>CONCLUSION</h4>This Application Note shows the feasibility of the analysis of dry matter, pH, and viscosity in laundry perfumes and fabric softeners with near-infrared spectroscopy. Measurement of all three quality parameters can be conducted within seconds without using any chemicals. NIRS can be used in several steps of the production chain or during quality control of the final product, saving manufacturers time and money. Additionally, with NIRS only one technology is required, compared to the standard analytical techniques often used for these determinations (Table 1).<h3>3. Shimadzu: Content Analysis of Heavy Metals in Soil by ICP-MS</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_01002_en_deeffe27a1.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h4>User Benefits</h4><ul><li>High-sensitivity analysis at less than 1/100 of Japan’s soil content standard is possible.</li><li>Correction methods and H2 reaction conditions reduce interference from rare earth elements when measuring As and Se.</li><li>Variation in measurement sensitivity due to the soil matrix is small, enabling stable measurement even when measuring multiple samples over a long time.</li></ul>Soil pollution occurs when chemical or hazardous substances in the soil harm the environment and human health. Soil pollution may be caused by natural phenomena, but most is caused by human activities such as leakage of hazardous substances from industrial activities and improper disposal of waste.In Japan, soil surveys are conducted in accordance with the Soil Contamination Countermeasures Act to prevent harm to human health. These surveys are mandatory when facilities using specified hazardous substances are decommissioned or when the characteristics of land over a certain size have changed. Two types of tests are conducted: soil leaching tests and soil content tests. Soil leaching tests are conducted to evaluate the risk of ingesting groundwater containing hazardous substances leached from the soil, and soil content tests are conducted to evaluate the risk of directly ingesting hazardous substances from the soil through the mouth or skin. The number of such soil surveys is increasing year by year, and since many samples need to be analyzed simultaneously, even in laboratories that accept them, stable and robust analysis equipment isrequired.&nbsp;In this Application News, soil content tests were conducted on five types of soil samples using an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=ICPMS-2050">ICPMS-2050</a>. The results of the validity of the analysis, the influence of interference from rare earth elements (REE), and long-term stability are also presented.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>Soil content tests were conducted using the ICPMS-2050. The measurement sensitivity was 1/100 or less of the soil content standard, and the validity of the measurements was shown by recovery tests, which confirmed that the influence of the matrix was minimal. Interelement correction and half-mass correction are effective for interference from REE, and the correction method can be selected depending on the measurement requirements. Furthermore, it was shown that for Se measurement, the interference from Ar and Gd can be largely eliminated by using H2 reaction conditions. Regarding long-term stability, the variation of the measurement sensitivity was small, and the quantitative values remained stable even when high-matrix samples derived from soil were repeatedly measured. Furthermore, by using the advance rinse function, the sample introduction volume can be reduced, shortening measurement times and improving stability

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 53, 2025

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 23rd March 2026? 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 LECO, Shimadzu and Waters Corporation and brochure by Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h3>1. LECO: Determination of Nitrogen in Fertilizer</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CN_FP_928_NITROGEN_FERTILIZERS_203_821_615_4d4b013a08.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Nitrogen is one of the most important elements for plant development and is the macronutrient that is most often found to be deficient in arable soils used for crop production. Nitrogen plays a key role in the formation of enzymes and proteins, which promotes lush, vigorous growth and development in plants that often leads to an increase in the yield from the plant. Fertilizers are utilized to re-introduce nitrogen back into arable soils. Fertilizers can be grouped by their makeup and/or origins into categories including inorganic and/or synthetic (including nitrates, ammonium, and urea) and organic (including compost materials and manures). The accurate and precise determination of nitrogen in all fertilizer types is not only important in the process of blending and preparing the fertilizer material for use, but also will have significant impact on the commercial value and guarantee of the fertilizer.&nbsp;The CN928/FP928 is a macro combustion carbon and nitrogen/protein determinator that utilizes a pure oxygen environment in a high-temperature horizontal ceramic combustion furnace designed to handle macro sample mass. A thermoelectric cooler removes moisture from the combustion gases before they are collected in a ballast. The gases equilibrate and mix in the ballast before a representative aliquot (3 cm3 or 10 cm3 volume) of the gas is extracted and introduced into a flowing stream of inert gas (helium or argon) for analysis. The aliquot gas is carried to a thermal conductivity cell (TC) for the detection of nitrogen (N2).<h4>Instrument Model and Configuration&nbsp;</h4>Thermal conductivity detectors work by detecting changes in the thermal conductivity of the analyte gas compared to the constant thermal conductivity of the reference/carrier gas. The greater the difference between the thermal conductivity of the carrier gas and the analyte gas, the greater the sensitivity of the detector. The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=24&amp;search=CN928">CN928</a>/<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=24&amp;search=FP928">FP928</a> supports either the use of helium or argon as the instrument's carrier gas. When used as a carrier gas, helium provides the highest sensitivity, and the best performance at the lower limit of the nitrogen range. The thermal conductivity difference between argon and nitrogen is not as great as the thermal conductivity difference between helium and nitrogen, therefore the detector is inherently less sensitive when using argon as a carrier gas.<h4>TYPICAL RESULTS&nbsp;</h4>Data was generated utilizing a single standard, forced through origin calibration using ~ 0.1 g of NIST 913b Uric Acid (33.23% N). Alternatively, LECO 503-530 LCRM Urea may be used for calibration.<h3>2. Shimadzu: Evaluation of Microscopic Foreign Matter in Recycled Plastics Using Dynamic Image Analysis, Infrared Microscopy, and SEM-EDS</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_00861_en_7485baba21.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h4>User Benefits</h4><ul><li>&nbsp;It is easy to evaluate the size and quantity of microscopic foreign particles, which are key quality criteria of recycled plastics.</li><li>With the microcell method of DIA, microscopic foreign matter can be detected and counted quickly using a small sample quantity.</li><li>Infrared microscope and SEM-EDS systems provide information about the morphology and composition of microscopic foreign matter that is useful for improving recycling processes.</li></ul>One of the quality criteria for recycled plastic flakes and pellets is the content of foreign matter. Quantitatively evaluating the size and quantity of foreign particles contained in flakes and pellets is important for examining foreign matter removal processes intended to improve pellet quality and optimize manufacturing processesfor products made with recycled materials.&nbsp;In this article, pellets of virgin and recycled polyethylene terephthalate (hereafter PET) were dissolved in hexafluoro-2-propanol (hereafter HFIP), a solvent for dissolving PET, to prepare suspensions of insoluble microscopic foreign particles. These suspensions were measured with a dynamic particle image analysis (DIA) system (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=iSpect+DIA-10">iSpect DIA-10</a>) to evaluate the size and number of insoluble microscopic foreign particles (patent pending). In addition, part of the suspensions were diluted tenfold and filtered through a membrane filter to collect the insoluble microscopic foreign particles on the filter. The morphology and composition of the collected microscopic foreign particles were evaluated using a digital microscope, an infrared microscope system (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=IRTracer-100">IRTracer-100</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=AIM-9000">AIM-9000</a>), and an SEM-EDS system. These evaluations enabled comparison of the sizes, quantities, and types of foreign particles contained in virgin and recycled materials.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>By using an iSpect DIA-10 system to measure suspensions prepared by dissolving two types of PET pellets (virgin and recycled) in HFIP, we obtained particle images of insoluble foreign matter and evaluated size and concentration of particles. That enabled quantitative comparison of particle size and count in microscopic foreign matter contained in virgin and recycled materials.&nbsp;In addition, after diluting the pellet suspensions, the insoluble microscopic foreign matter in the diluted suspensions was collected on filters. The morphology and composition of the microscopic foreign matter were evaluated using an infrared microscope and SEM-EDS system. The results indicated that the suspensions contained organic substances, such as cellulose and amide-based compounds, and inorganic substances and metals that contain elements such as C, O, Ca, and Al (suggestive of carbonates and metallic aluminum).&nbsp;Thus, the iSpect DIA-10 enables simple quantitative evaluation of the size and number of microscopic foreign particles in PET pellets using only small sample quantities. Furthermore, composition evaluation by infrared microscope and SEM-EDS systems provides useful information for investigating the origin of foreign matter, examining measures to reduce foreign matter, and evaluating impacts on final products. If similarities in size and shape are observed, particle images obtained with iSpect DIA-10 can also potentially be used to estimate particle composition.<h3>3. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Ensuring safer and effective pharmaceutical formulations by X-ray diffraction</h3><ul><li>Brochures and specifications</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/PF_41381_xrd_solutions_pharma_9b89684165.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>From drug discovery and preformulation studies to the efficient scaling up in the manufacturing process in the plant and finally through QA/QC validation, X-ray diffraction (XRD) is a vital analysis method in the characterization of different physico-chemical properties of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API). XRD is a gold standard method and required technique in the determination of polymorphic and salt screening, % of crystallinity and stability/reactivity studies of the final API.&nbsp;<h5><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2297">Thermo Scientific™ SolstiX™ XRD Software</a> with Security Suite extends ARL EQUINOX 100 X-ray Diffractometers to 21 CFR Part 11 regulated labs&nbsp;</h5><ul><li>Protect stored electronic data related to quality assurance within manufacturer’s computer systems&nbsp;</li><li>Put controls in place to keep records authentic, incorruptible, and confidential&nbsp;</li><li>Electronic signatures for the user to take responsibility for the electronic data in the system&nbsp;</li><li>Requirements in the data record: date and time of scan, name of the unique signer, and technological controls to ensure security (e.g. passwords)&nbsp;</li></ul><h5><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2143">Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ EQUINOX 100 X-ray benchtop diffractometer</a> is designed to exceed your analytical needs&nbsp;</h5><ul><li>Ideally suited for rapid screening of various formulations, finger printing or detection of counterfeit products&nbsp;</li><li>Polymorphism and crystallinity determination, crystallite size calculation, quantitative phase analysis, reactivity and stability of materials, etc.&nbsp;</li><li>XRD experiments on standard powders, bulks, tablets, small quantities, etc.&nbsp;</li><li>Real-time full pattern XRD based on our unique PSD detector technology&nbsp;</li><li>X-ray source based on micro-source technology with no external water cooling</li><li>Unique dual-mode capability: reflection and/or transmission&nbsp;</li></ul><h5>Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ EQUINOX 100 XRD for structural analysis&nbsp;</h5><ul><li>Easy-to-use simultaneous full pattern XRD based on unique real time PSD detector technology&nbsp;</li><li>Unique dual-mode capability on a benchtop XRD instrument: reflection and/or transmission mode&nbsp;</li><li>XRD experiments on various samples with sample spinner, capillary stage, sample changer or in controlled environment</li></ul><h5>Top XRD benefits for pharma&nbsp;</h5><ul><li>Structural characterization technique&nbsp;</li><li>Nondestructive technique&nbsp;</li><li>Small amount of sample needed for analysis&nbsp;</li><li>Unique diffraction patterns and quick response&nbsp;</li><li>Analysis on mixtures as well as amorphous content&nbsp;</li><li>Easy determination of induced structural changes</li></ul><h3>4. Waters Corporation: SIMI: A Different Approach to Revealing Dangerous Subvisible Impurities</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/720009094_en_fb955e89ec.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Foreign particulate matter, also known as extrinsic particles, has become a serious threat to patient safety in recent years, with cases linked to severe immunogenic reactions, deaths, and costly recalls.1 In 2021 alone, Takeda recalled 1.6 million doses of the Moderna COVID-19 mRNA vaccine in Japan after several patient deaths were linked to steel particulates shed from a malfunctioning pump.2 Over the span of seven years, from 2014–2017, there were more than 110 drug recalls as a result of glass delamination,3–4 and several more due to remnant crystals,5 owing to the difficulty of identifying the presence and source of foreign particulate matter. To prevent against such threats, manufacturers require high throughput technologies to better identify foreign particulate matter in real time.<h4>Results and Discussion</h4><h5>Shining a Light on Extrinsic Particles with SIMI</h5>Side illumination membrane imaging (SIMI) is a proprietary illumination, imaging, and analysis technique exclusively available to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2190">Aura instruments</a>. Utilizing the principles of darkfield microscopy,6 SIMI is conducted on an Aura membrane plate using an oblique illumination source which emits light at an angle parallel to the surface of the plate.&nbsp;Compared to backgrounded membrane imaging (BMI), which utilizes brightfield microscopy (epi-illumination) where particles scatter the incident light isotropically (i.e., at all angles), side illumination membrane maging (SIMI) is a technique that is specifically designed to detect light scattering from high refractive index particles, as well as those that protrude out of the plane from the membrane surface. A particle’s average SIMI intensity is measured in a relative scale where the inherent SIMI scattering of the membrane is defined as SIMI = 0. Positive SIMI values indicate particles protruding out of the membrane, as is the case with microplastics, fibers, and other common extrinsic particles, whose average SIMI intensities vary from 0–255. On some occasions, like with metallic particles and absorbing oils, particles will have reduced light refraction relative to the membrane and thus display negative SIMI values, varying from 0 to -122.&nbsp;The majority of foreign, extrinsic particles exhibit a high refractive index and are mechanically rigid in structure, causing them to protrude from the membrane surface and scatter side illumination to a high degree, ideal for SIMI analysis. In contrast, biologic particles exhibit the opposite properties—low refractive index and malleable structures, causing them to lie flat with minimal side scatter profiles, which is best analyzed with BMI or fluorescence membrane microscopy (FMM). Utilizing all three microscopy approaches is most ideal to facilitate the determination of all extrinsic (non-biologic) and inherent (biologic) particles in biologic formulations.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>SIMI is a unique approach to providing additional characterization of subvisible particles and is available in all Aura models to help rapidly identify foreign material in biological samples with a high degree of specificity. A key tertiary imaging mode in addition to BMI and FMM, SIMI provides selective, orthogonal morphological information to identify tall and rigid materials, a defining feature of most extrinsic particles (Figure 11). While particle sizing and counting is done via BMI, SIMI provides illumination, imaging, and analysis that can be useful across a variety of biological products to reveal foreign subvisible particles from the earliest to the latest of stages in the bioprocess.

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 13, 2026

Labs&nbsp;that rely on helium gas are&nbsp;facing a major crisis…unless they have LECO instruments.&nbsp;Due to the military conflict in the Middle East, Qatar’s Ras Laffan Industrial City,&nbsp;the world’s largest helium production hub, providing one-third of the world’s helium,&nbsp;has&nbsp;shut down operations.&nbsp;To make matters worse,&nbsp;the Strait of Hormuz,&nbsp;the shipping lane used to&nbsp;export helium, has also been closed,&nbsp;meaning&nbsp;even pre-filled helium containers are stuck&nbsp;with&nbsp;no&nbsp;viable&nbsp;route to customers.&nbsp;Naturally,&nbsp;the price&nbsp;of helium has now risen&nbsp;dramatically;&nbsp;most spot prices have doubled.&nbsp;A&nbsp;critical&nbsp;scarcity&nbsp;issue&nbsp;is looming as&nbsp;the world must now&nbsp;operate&nbsp;on&nbsp;roughly 5.2&nbsp;million cubic meters&nbsp;per&nbsp;month&nbsp;less of helium.&nbsp;<h3>Why Helium&nbsp;Cost and Supply&nbsp;Matters&nbsp;to Labs&nbsp;</h3>Although many people may recognize helium&nbsp;as the gas that fills party balloons,&nbsp;it&nbsp;plays a&nbsp;critical&nbsp;role in much&nbsp;more serious&nbsp;matters.&nbsp;Helium&nbsp;has&nbsp;unique properties, like an extremely low boiling point, inertness, and high thermal conductivity, which&nbsp;makes&nbsp;it indispensable in several high-tech applications.&nbsp;&nbsp;For example, research labs&nbsp;may use helium as a&nbsp;carrier&nbsp;gas&nbsp;when performing&nbsp;elemental analyses or&nbsp;gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, which is used&nbsp;to&nbsp;separate and&nbsp;identify&nbsp;chemical compounds in samples.&nbsp;But research labs&nbsp;are&nbsp;often&nbsp;government-funded and run under strict budgets,&nbsp;so&nbsp;the price hike&nbsp;on&nbsp;helium could&nbsp;mean labs have to&nbsp;pause&nbsp;their research until everything falls back&nbsp;under control,&nbsp;which could be months or longer.&nbsp;Even well-funded labs could suffer if the supply is simply too stretched to&nbsp;equip&nbsp;the lab with&nbsp;what&nbsp;they need, as medical uses are given top priority.&nbsp;This could have a serious impact on accuracy and compliance with regulated methods.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3>The Consequences&nbsp;Reach Farther&nbsp;</h3>When helium becomes unavailable or prohibitively expensive, the ripple effects are immediate and far-reaching. It affects more than&nbsp;just&nbsp;balloons and research labs:&nbsp;<ul><li>Delayed Medical Diagnostics: MRI machines, which rely on helium to cool their superconducting magnets, may be taken offline, delaying critical scans.&nbsp;</li><li>Semiconductor Bottlenecks: Chip shortages could worsen,&nbsp;impacting&nbsp;everything from smartphones to electric vehicles and AI infrastructure.&nbsp;</li><li>Industrial Disruption: Welding, aerospace, and fiber optics manufacturing&nbsp;face rising costs and potential production halts.&nbsp;</li></ul><h3>LECO’s Solution: Instruments That&nbsp;Don’t&nbsp;Rely on Helium&nbsp;&nbsp;</h3>Amidst this pending&nbsp;crisis, LECO offers a practical and forward-thinking solution.&nbsp;This marks the 5th&nbsp;major helium supply crisis since 2006,&nbsp;and&nbsp;it’s&nbsp;likely there will be more after this. Helium&nbsp;supply is concentrated&nbsp;to&nbsp;just a few regions, meaning that any time there is a disruption to one of these, it can create a large effect on the industry.&nbsp;That’s&nbsp;why we designed our innovative analytical instruments&nbsp;to&nbsp;operate&nbsp;using alternative carrier gases.&nbsp;&nbsp;Depending on the instrument, alternative gases&nbsp;such as nitrogen,&nbsp;argon,&nbsp;or hydrogen may be used in place of helium. These gases are&nbsp;abundant, cost-effective, and&nbsp;less prone&nbsp;to the geopolitical volatility that plagues helium supply chains.&nbsp;&nbsp;LECO’s helium-free&nbsp;options&nbsp;ensure that operations stay online, efficient, and future-proof&nbsp;in a world where helium is becoming increasingly scarce and expensive.&nbsp;This flexibility is no longer a luxury—it’s&nbsp;a necessity.&nbsp;If your lab or facility is feeling the pressure of helium scarcity, now is the time to explore alternatives.&nbsp;This&nbsp;isn’t&nbsp;the first helium shortage, and it&nbsp;won’t&nbsp;be the last.&nbsp;Is your lab prepared?<h3>LECO Instruments Supporting Non-Helium Carrier Gases&nbsp;</h3><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/36">Pegasus BT</a> (Bench-Top GC–TOFMS, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/37">incl. BT 4D</a>)</h4><ul><li>Supported Carrier Gases: Helium or Hydrogen</li><li>Notes on Usage / Limitations: Supports H₂ as GC carrier with a retrofit kit for safety. Performance on hydrogen is on par with helium – the Pegasus BT series meets its full sensitivity specs with either gas.</li><li>App Note: “<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/PEGBT_TEA_TREE_ESSENTIAL_OIL_HYDROGEN_CARRIER_GAS_203_821_651_95c7a05807/PEGBT_TEA_TREE_ESSENTIAL_OIL_HYDROGEN_CARRIER_GAS_203-821-651.pdf">A Rapid, Robust and Sensitive Analysis of Tea Tree Essential Oil Quality by GC-TOFMS with Hydrogen as Carrier Gas</a>”</li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_Pegasus_BT_2_bc8a8d0505.jpg" alt="LECO: Pegasus BT" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_Pegasus_BT_2_bc8a8d0505.jpg 238w," sizes="100vw" width="932" height="612"><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/1097">Pegasus BTX</a> (Next-gen BT, incl. BTX 4D)</h4><ul><li>Supported Carrier Gases: Helium or Hydrogen</li><li>Notes on Usage / Limitations: Designed for seamless helium-to-hydrogen use. The Pegasus BTX series maintains trace-level sensitivity with either helium or hydrogen carrier gas, a rare capability in GC–MS. No hardware changes needed beyond standard setup.&nbsp;</li><li>App Note: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/PEGBTX_GINGER_OIL_HYDROGEN_CARRIER_GAS_203_821_694_1685d36546.pdf">“Ginger Oil Analysis and Grade Differentiation with Pegasus BTX Using Hydrogen Carrier Gas”</a></li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_LECO_PEGASUS_BTX_GC_TOFMS_cover_image_34704e689d.jpg" alt="LECO: Pegasus BTX" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_LECO_PEGASUS_BTX_GC_TOFMS_cover_image_34704e689d.jpg 235w," sizes="100vw" width="416" height="276"><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/38">Pegasus&nbsp;HRT</a>&nbsp;(High-Resolution TOF-MS,<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/39"> incl. 4D</a>)</h4><ul><li>Supported Carrier Gases: Helium or Hydrogen</li><li>Notes on Usage / Limitations: High-resolution GC–TOFMS systems support H₂ as a carrier gas as well as He.&nbsp;Note:&nbsp;Strict safety protocols apply due to&nbsp;hydrogen’s&nbsp;flammability. Hydrogen use is not recommended in instruments/configurations where gas could accumulate (e.g.&nbsp;very long, vertical&nbsp;flight tubes), but LECO’s HRT instruments&nbsp;utilize&nbsp;Folded Flight Path technology, which&nbsp;eliminates&nbsp;this concern.&nbsp;</li><li>App Note: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/GC_MS_Analysis_Hydrogen_Carrier_Gas_MMS_Ion_Source_HRT_G_Cx_GC_TOFMS_SA_ASMS_23_LPSS_310_6247a1baaf/GC-MS_Analysis_Hydrogen_Carrier_Gas_MMS_Ion_Source_HRT-GCxGC-TOFMS_SA_ASMS23_LPSS-310.pdf">“GC–MS Analysis with Hydrogen Carrier Gas on GC×GC-HRTOFMS (MMS Ion Source)”</a></li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_Pegasus_GC_HRT_831fcb6d1e.jpg" alt="LECO: Pegasus&nbsp;HRT" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_Pegasus_GC_HRT_831fcb6d1e.jpg 226w," sizes="100vw" width="3600" height="2487"><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1884">LECO 828 Series</a> (Nitrogen/Protein/Carbon/Hydrogen)</h4><ul><li>Supported Carrier Gases: Helium or Argon&nbsp;</li><li>Notes on Usage / Limitations: The LECO 828 Series&nbsp;supports&nbsp;argon as an alternative&nbsp;carrier gas&nbsp;to helium. Helium provides higher TCD sensitivity (important for low-N samples),&nbsp;whereas&nbsp;argon operation raises the nitrogen detection limit and slightly reduces low-range precision. Switching gas type simply requires updating the method and flow settings (no hardware change&nbsp;required).</li><li>App Note: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.leco.com/documents/203-821-665/?_gl=1*1d6stb6*_up*MQ..*_ga*MTMwMjg4MTUxNC4xNzc2MTAzOTU0*_ga_K8NYKVEKHY*czE3NzYxMDM5NTQkbzEkZzAkdDE3NzYxMDM5NTQkajYwJGwwJGg0NTY2NjUwNjk.*_ga_KRDSR1XM7X*czE3NzYxMDM5NTQkbzEkZzAkdDE3NzYxMDM5NTQkajYwJGwwJGgw">“Carbon, Hydrogen, and Nitrogen in Biomass using CHN828”</a>&nbsp;</li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_rada_828_Makroanalyza_spalovanim_pro_analyzator_uhliku_vodiku_dusiku_a_bilkovin_e86acd897e.jpg" alt="LECO 828 Series" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_rada_828_Makroanalyza_spalovanim_pro_analyzator_uhliku_vodiku_dusiku_a_bilkovin_e86acd897e.jpg 137w," sizes="100vw" width="454" height="516"><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1885">LECO 928 Series</a> (Nitrogen/Protein/Carbon/Sulfur)</h4><ul><li>Supported Carrier Gases: Helium or Argon&nbsp;</li><li>Notes on Usage / Limitations: The LECO&nbsp;928 Series&nbsp;also&nbsp;supports&nbsp;argon carrier gas as an alternative to helium. Helium use gives the best sensitivity and lowest detection limits for nitrogen, while argon use increases analysis time slightly and raises the nitrogen detection limit (due to the smaller thermal conductivity difference). The 928-series instruments have built-in&nbsp;settings for either gas; when switching, users adjust flow&nbsp;and select&nbsp;the appropriate carrier gas&nbsp;in the system settings. Users also have the option to select&nbsp;a larger aliquot loop&nbsp;in the analysis method&nbsp;to improve&nbsp;precision.&nbsp;</li><li>App Note: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CN_928_CN_CARBON_BLACK_GRAPHITE_203_821_684_c2224fa8be.pdf">“Determination of Carbon and Nitrogen in Carbon Black and Graphite”</a></li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_rada_928_Stanoveni_makrohodnot_pomoci_spalovani_3_74de99f8e5.jpg" alt="LECO 928 Series" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_rada_928_Stanoveni_makrohodnot_pomoci_spalovani_3_74de99f8e5.jpg 216w," sizes="100vw" width="711" height="513"><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1880">736</a>/<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1882">836</a> Series&nbsp;(Inert Gas Fusion O2/N2&nbsp;/H2&nbsp;&nbsp;analyzers)</h4><ul><li>Supported Carrier Gases: Helium or Argon&nbsp;</li><li>Notes on Usage / Limitations: LECO’s inert gas fusion analyzers for oxygen and nitrogen in inorganic materials (e.g.&nbsp;models ON736, ON836) traditionally use helium as the carrier for the TCD measuring N2. These systems can run on argon as well, provided the appropriate He/Ar&nbsp;dual-purpose TCD is installed. Switching from He to&nbsp;Ar&nbsp;in these instruments is a one-time setup change;&nbsp;both gases are supported in the software (selectable “Gas Type” setting).&nbsp;When using argon, the furnace runs hotter&nbsp;and produces more soot, so maintenance (filter changes, cleaning)&nbsp;becomes more frequent.&nbsp;Low-level nitrogen precision is also slightly&nbsp;lessened&nbsp;with argon.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>App Note: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ONH_836_O_N_H_IRON_STEEL_NICKEL_COBALT_ALLOYS_COMPARISON_203_821_601_3c9836f4b4.pdf">“Determination of Oxygen, Nitrogen, and Hydrogen in Iron, Steel, Nickel-base, and Cobalt-base Alloys: Comparison of Analytical Performance Between Argon and Helium Carrier”&nbsp;</a></li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_rada_736_Analyza_kysliku_a_dusiku_roztavenim_vzorku_v_inertnim_plynu_3_0ec033bbbb.jpg" alt="LECO 736 Series" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_rada_736_Analyza_kysliku_a_dusiku_roztavenim_vzorku_v_inertnim_plynu_3_0ec033bbbb.jpg 151w," sizes="100vw" width="825" height="852"><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_rada_836_Analyza_prvku_pro_detekci_kysliku_dusiku_a_vodiku_5_8011397ce6.jpg" alt="LECO 836 Series" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_rada_836_Analyza_prvku_pro_detekci_kysliku_dusiku_a_vodiku_5_8011397ce6.jpg 134w," sizes="100vw" width="657" height="764"><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1850">DH603&nbsp;Hydrogen Determinator</a></h4><ul><li>Supported Carrier Gases: Nitrogen (carrier), Helium (calibration gas)&nbsp;</li><li>Notes on Usage / Limitations: The DH603 measures diffusible and residual hydrogen in metals by hot extraction. It does&nbsp;not use helium as a carrier&nbsp;during analysis—instead&nbsp;it uses nitrogen as the purge/carrier gas in the TCD system. A small helium dose is used only for calibration and system checks (to introduce a known H2&nbsp;quantity via He-H2&nbsp;mix). In routine operation, the furnace is purged with N2&nbsp;and any hydrogen released from the sample is carried to a TCD that&nbsp;references against&nbsp;the nitrogen background. This design avoids flammable gas in the instrument entirely.&nbsp;</li><li>App Note: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/DH_603_H_STEEL_SAMPLES_203_821_376_68e63cfea2.pdf">“Hydrogen Determination in Steel Samples Using DH603”&nbsp;</a></li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_DH_603_Stanoveni_zbytkoveho_a_difuzniho_vodiku_horkou_extrakci_d968c7c42b.jpg" alt="LECO: DH603&nbsp;Hydrogen Determinator" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_DH_603_Stanoveni_zbytkoveho_a_difuzniho_vodiku_horkou_extrakci_d968c7c42b.jpg 237w," sizes="100vw" width="1325" height="875">

As Helium Prices Rise and Supply Shrinks, LECO Customers Have Reliable Alternatives

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 27th April 2026? 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, LECO, Shimadzu, and Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: Ethanol Impurity Analysis Using the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=Cary+3500">Agilent Cary 3500 Flexible UV-Vis Spectrophotometer</a></h3>The use of long-path-length cells in pharmaceutical QC<ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_ethanol_impurity_analysis_cary_3500_flexible_uv_vis_5994_9041en_agilent_3980fa0dc8.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy is a rapid, sensitive, and nondestructive test widely used in the pharmaceutical industry for quality control (QC). This method typically involves using a standard 10 mm path length cuvette to measure absorbance of materials, which can then be used in QC labs to quantify or qualify an analyte of interest.&nbsp;In UV-Vis measurements, the photometric response of the spectrophotometer follows the Beer‑Lambert law, where a linear relationship exists between the sample absorbance and sample path length. The path length is the distance that the incident light travels through a sample. Increasing the cuvette path length from 10 to 50 mm increases the absorbance of a sample, aiding in more accurate quantification of components with low peak intensity. Alternatively, if the sample concentration is high and exceeds the linear dynamic detection range of the system, a cuvette with a shorter path length can be used instead.1In the pharmaceutical industry, ethanol is widely used in manufacturing as a disinfectant, solvent, and preservative. Due to its amphipathic structure, ethanol can dissolve both hydrophilic and lipophilic substances, serving as a medium to dissolve key components for a broad spectrum of drug formulations. The dual nature of ethanol also allows it to inhibit microbial growth by disrupting cellular membranes and denaturing proteins, processes that are vital for disinfection and the preservation of&nbsp;medications.2&nbsp;As a result, ethanol used in pharmaceutical manufacturing must comply with pharmacopeia standards to ensure drug safety, efficacy, and quality. The United States Pharmacopeia (USP)3, European Pharmacopoeia (EP)4, and Japanese Pharmacopoeia (JP)5 all specify using an ultraviolet absorption test to measure impurities in ethanol at designated wavelengths (Table 1). In this test, the absorption spectrum should show a steadily descending curve with no observable peaks or shoulders, which serve as qualitative indicators of impurities present in the sample. Since the impurities have low absorbance levels, the USP, EP, and JP require the use of a 50 mm cell to improve sensitivity and detection levels.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=Cary+3500">Agilent Cary 3500 Flexible UV-Vis spectrophotometer</a> with variable-path-length cell holder demonstrates exceptional performance in the measurement of ethanol impurities according to global pharmacopeia standards. This underscores the system's suitability for pharmaceutical‑grade quality control. Combined with Agilent Cary UV Workstation software and a 10-year xenon flash lamp replacement warranty, this system delivers a user-friendly interface and global pharmacopeia-compliant hardware (USP, EP, JP), providing long‑term stability and low maintenance. Optimized workflows enable precise, routine photometric quality checks to ensure products are in compliance with pharmaceutical-grade standards.<h3>2. LECO: Determination of Nitrogen/Protein in Whey and Powdered Dairy Products</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/FP_928_NITROGEN_PROTEIN_WHEY_POWDERED_DAIRY_203_821_671_1ecb5b0d95.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Two of the main types of proteins in milk are casein and whey. Whey protein is a co-product of cheese production and represents the water-soluble protein remaining in the solution after the milk has been acidified or a coagulation agent has been added. The removal of the non-soluble casein protein portion is referred to as curds. Whey protein is a common ingredient in many dietary supplements due to its availability, solubility, and unique functional characteristics.&nbsp;The accurate and precise determination of protein in whey and powdered dairy products not only plays a role in the characterization of nutritional or dietary value in dairy products, but may also be key in determining the quality or category of the dairy product. Protein in whey and other dairy products is most commonly calculated using the measured Nitrogen in the sample and a protein factor multiplier (protein factors vary according to the sample matrix).<h4>Instrument Model and Configuration&nbsp;</h4>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1885">LECO FP928</a> is a macro combustion Nitrogen/Protein determinator that utilizes a pure Oxygen environment in a high-temperature horizontal ceramic combustion furnace, utilizing ceramic boats designed to handle macro sample masses (~ 1.0 g). A thermoelectric cooler removes moisture from the combustion gases before they are collected in a ballast. The gases equilibrate and mix in the ballast before a representative aliquot (3 cm3 or 10 cm3 volume) of the gas is extracted and introduced into a flowing stream of inert carrier gas (Helium or Argon) for analysis. The aliquot of gas is carried through a heated reduction tube, filled with Copper, to convert Nitrogen Oxide combustion gas species (NOx) to Nitrogen (N2). The aliquot gas is then carried to a thermal conductivity cell (TC) for the detection of Nitrogen (N2).&nbsp;Thermal conductivity detectors work by detecting changes in the thermal conductivity of the analyte gas compared to a reference/carrier gas. The greater the difference between the thermal conductivity of the carrier gas and the analyte gas, the greater the sensitivity of the detector. The FP928 supports either the use of Helium or Argon as the instrument's carrier gas. When used as a carrier gas, Helium provides the highest sensitivity, and the best performance at the lower limit of the Nitrogen range. The thermal conductivity difference between Argon and Nitrogen is not as great as the thermal conductivity difference between Helium and Nitrogen; therefore, the detector is inherently less sensitive when using Argon as a carrier gas.<h4>TYPICAL RESULTS&nbsp;</h4>Data was generated utilizing a linear, force through origin calibration using ~0.75 g of LECO 502-896 (Lot 1007) LCRM EDTA (9.59% N). The calibration was verified using ~0.1 g of LECO 502-688 (Lot 1004) LCRM Nicotinic Acid (11.37% N). Samples were weighed and analyzed at ~0.5 grams. A protein † factor of 6.38 was used for all samples to calculate the protein content.<h3>3. Shimadzu: High-Temperature Gigacycle Fatigue Test of Inconel 718 and Element Distribution Measurement on a Fracture Surface</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_01082_en_37d9ba3a1a.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h4>User Benefits</h4><ul><li>Fatigue testing at 20 kHz can be performed using an ultrasonic fatigue testing machine, and 109 cycle fatigue tests can be completed in about 14 hours.</li><li>High-temperature fatigue tests can be performed by using a combination of an ultrasonic fatigue testing system and an induction heating furnace.</li><li>The origins of fatigue fractures and inclusions can be identified by observations and element distribution measurements using an electron probe microanalyzer.</li></ul>Inconel 718 has excellent heat and corrosion resistance and high strength. Its mechanical properties can be maintained even under high-temperature environments, which is why it is used in harsh environments, such as in the jet engines and turbine blades in the aerospace industry, and in gas turbines and nuclear power plant parts in the energy industry. In these applications, long-term reliability is crucial, making fatigue testing essential. However, this can be time-consuming; for example, gigacycle fatigue testing exceeding 109 cycles takes three to four months at a frequency of 100 Hz when using a conventional fatigue testing machine. But with the USF-2000A ultrasonic fatigue testing system, tests performed at a frequency of 20 kHz can be completed in approximately 14 hours.&nbsp;This article describes using the USF-2000A to perform gigacycle fatigue tests on Inconel 718 at 600 °C. In addition, the EPMA8050G, which is an electron probe microanalyzer (EPMA ), was used to observe the fatigue fracture surfaces and measure the element distribution.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>Gigacycle fatigue tests were performed on Inconel 718 at 600 °C, using the USF-2000A ultrasonic fatigue testing system. Good results were obtained since the number of cycles to fractures fell in the range 106 to 109 for their respective loading conditions. The EPMA-8050G electron probe microanalyzer was used to perform elemental mapping analysis of fractures originating from inclusions, and the elements of the inclusions were identified.<h3>4. Thermo Fisher Scientific: XPS depth profiling of coated nitrided steel using femtosecond laser ablation</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/xps_depth_profiling_coated_nitrided_steel_appnote_d19841e6c9.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) is a powerful surface analysis technique that provides essential information about elemental composition along with chemical and electronic states. Depth profiling, a process in which material is repeatedly and sequentially analyzed with XPS and removed, provides access to buried features, layers, and interfaces. Traditional ion sputtering methods for depth profiling can, however, lead to preferential sputtering and chemical damage, impacting the reliability and accuracy of results. This is particularly problematic for complex, multi-layered structures and coatings, where it is crucial for the stoichiometry and chemical integrity to be maintained throughout the depth profile.&nbsp;This application note explores the use of femtosecond laser ablation (fs-LA) as an alternative to conventional ion sputtering for XPS depth profiling. Specifically, this approach is used to analyze a nitrided steel surface coated with a titanium-doped molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂:Ti) layer, which was applied with physical vapor deposition (PVD). Nitriding is typically used in applications where durability is critical, such as in the production of gears, as it increases surface hardness and wear resistance. The addition of a MoS₂:Ti coating offers additional benefits such as enhanced lubrication and wear resistance. Molybdenum disulfide is well-known for its lubricating properties, and doping with titanium improves mechanical strength and adhesion to the substrate. Accurate depth profiling is essential for unraveling how these structures increase performance and for their further optimization and improvement.<h4>Experimental</h4>A <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/2206">Thermo Scientific™ Hypulse™ Surface Analysis System,</a> equipped with both traditional ion sputtering and fs-LA capabilities, was utilized for the analysis. XPS data was collected in SnapShot mode using a 30 µm X-ray spot size. A 500 eV monoatomic Ar⁺ beam from a Thermo Scientific™ MAGCIS™ Dual Beam Ion Source was used for sputter depth profiling. The fs-LA depth profiles were generated using a 1,030-nm laser operating at a 160 fs pulse length. The pulse energy was increased from 83 µJ to 250 µJ when transitioning from the MoS₂:Ti coating into the bulk steel material.<h4>Summary&nbsp;</h4>XPS depth profiling with femtosecond laser ablation offers a robust alternative to traditional ion sputtering, particularly for materials sensitive to preferential sputtering and chemical damage. The technique provides accurate stoichiometric analysis and preserves chemical state information, making it ideal for complex, multi-layered structures with deeply buried interfaces. The fs-LA method can offer comparable depth resolution to ion sputtering while being able to profile greater depths in a fraction of the time.&nbsp;This application note demonstrates the effectiveness of fs-LA in maintaining the chemical integrity of a nitrided steel material with a MoS₂:Ti coating throughout a depth profile, providing accurate and reliable results in a practical timeframe.

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 18, 2026

TOC, short for <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.leco.com/documents/203-821-679/?_gl=1*1gfpag2*_up*MQ..*_ga*MTA1NDA5NTg5OC4xNzc5NjQwNTM1*_ga_KRDSR1XM7X*czE3Nzk2NDA1MzQkbzEkZzAkdDE3Nzk2NDA1MzQkajYwJGwwJGgw*_ga_K8NYKVEKHY*czE3Nzk2NDA1MzQkbzEkZzAkdDE3Nzk2NDA1MzQkajYwJGwwJGgxOTI5MTg0MDYz">Total Organic Carbon</a>, is an important metric when analyzing soil health. Soils with high TOC content indicate high levels of biodiversity, as organic carbon fuels microbial activity. This enhanced biodiversity is incredibly beneficial to the soil. It boosts nutrient cycling and natural disease suppression, while also contributing to overall soil fertility and plant productivity.Soil biodiversity also leads to better water retention. Organic carbon binds soil particles together to make stable aggregates, which improves the overall soil structure and allows it to retain more water. This feat encourages overall plant health and the sequestration of carbon. Soils with low TOC content, however, experience limited biodiversity, leading to poor soil structure, greater amounts of erosion, and reduced crop yields.<h3>The Challenges of Determining TOC</h3>It’s important for stakeholders in the agriculture industry to pay special attention to the TOC levels in their soils if they want to get the most out of their crops. Knowing TOC levels helps to avoid blind addition of nutrients to soil, potentially cutting out unnecessary labor and costs. However, analyzing soil for TOC does come with its own set of challenges.For example, accurately distinguishing between organic and inorganic carbon requires effective separation of carbon species during analysis.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1845"> LECO’s RC612 </a>addresses this challenge through its temperature differentiation method, precisely controlling oxidation and decomposition conditions to selectively quantify carbon fractions. Alternatively, the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1883">C832</a>’s acid pretreatment method ensures reliable removal of inorganic carbon prior to combustion for accurate measurement of organic carbon.These approaches help mitigate common challenges such as incomplete carbonate removal, sample heterogeneity, or incomplete oxidation. While careful sample preparation remains important, leveraging instruments specifically designed to manage these variables is key to achieving precise, repeatable TOC results.<h3>Trust LECO with Your TOC</h3>Researchers and engineers at LECO have worked hard to continuously provide instrumentation that meets or exceeds expected performance. With a line of <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products?category=352&amp;manufacturerItems=24">carbon analyzers</a> that are suitable for TOC and more, you can trust LECO with your results, and you can count on our <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.leco.com/support/?_gl=1*13d4rug*_up*MQ..*_ga*MzkzNTEwNzk1LjE3Nzk2NDA0NzQ.*_ga_K8NYKVEKHY*czE3Nzk2NDA0NzQkbzEkZzAkdDE3Nzk2NDA0NzQkajYwJGwwJGgzMzYyNzIxMzU.*_ga_KRDSR1XM7X*czE3Nzk2NDA0NzQkbzEkZzAkdDE3Nzk2NDA0NzQkajYwJGwwJGgw#">superior service</a> when your lab needs it. But don’t take our word for it—read and then click on the quotes below to discover what three different labs in countries across Europe had to say about their LECO instruments for TOC analysis:<blockquote>“We have been using these instruments since 2009, and every time they release a new version, we are impressed. They are very robust instruments, with very simple daily maintenance; they are built to work. Analysis times are very short, and their robustness, accuracy, repeatability, and precision are excellent. In short, they are instruments designed to work—the more we use them, the better they perform.”Paco San Nicolás, Head of the Ionomics Service at The Center for Soil Science and Applied Biology of Segura (CEBAS-CSIC), Murcia, Spain</blockquote>CEBAS-CSIC is a leading research center in Spain, critical for advancing sustainable soil and water management.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/leco_interview_with_paco_san_nicolas_csic_cebas_7c53cbb753.pdf">Read the entire interview with Paco.</a><blockquote>“…This allows us to determine the organic carbon content. In this way, we obtain both mineral and organic carbon values (TC/TOC/TIC).”“What was less common was applying a similar approach to sulfur. Existing standards dealing with sulfur mainly focus on coal but not soils. So, we combined and adapted different standards to develop a methodology suitable for soils and other geomaterials containing sulfur/sulfate species, and we now transferred this method to professional applications.”Myriam Duc, Researcher, and François Lansac, Engineering Assistant Université Gustave Eiffel, France</blockquote>Myriam Duc is known for her work regarding clay behavior, soil stabilization, and sustainable construction materials. Université Gustave Eiffel is both a university and a major research organization with a primary focus on sustainable urban development.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/leco_interview_with_universite_gustave_eiffel_ee64b83ece.pdf">Read their entire interview.</a><blockquote>“They (LECO instruments, including the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1843">RC612</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1884">CHN828</a>, and AC600) are an essential part of our analysis work. We don’t use them every day, but we rely on them regularly and they are very important for our daily work. Reliability is an important feature here.”Maria Lehtinen, Lab Manager Kuusakoski’s Research Center, Lahti, Finland</blockquote>Kuusakoski’s Research Centre focuses on advancing recycling technology and material recovery. Their mission is to restore value to waste and recover precious metals from waste more efficiently.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/leco_interview_with_kuusakoski_research_centre_dca94b5485.pdf">Read the entire interview with Maria.</a>

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In 1936, the Laboratory Equipment Company introduced the first rapid carbon determinator for the American iron and steel industry.  Today, almost 80 years later, LECO is recognized globally as a leader in the development of high-quality analytical instrumentation, mass spectrometers, comprehensive two-dimensional chromatography, metallography & optical equipment as well as consumables.

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