In the evolving landscape of <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/industrial/manufacturing-processing/steel-manufacturing.html?icid=CAD_blog_metals_2025Jan">steel manufacturing</a>, the focus on efficiency, sustainability, and superior quality has become increasingly important. As the global demand for steel continues to rise, so does the need to produce it in a way that minimizes environmental impact, conserves resources, and helps to ensure high standards of product quality. Advanced technologies play a crucial role in supporting clean steel manufacturing, enhancing both the quality and efficiency of production while significantly reducing the environmental impact of the industry.&nbsp;A key aspect of modern steel manufacturing is the use of advanced elemental analysis technologies such as <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_2025Jan">X-ray Fluorescence </a>(XRF) and <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-structural-analysis-information/oes-academy.html?icid=CAD_blog_metals_2025Jan">Optical Emission Spectrometry</a> (OES). These methods are essential for helping to ensure the purity and quality of raw materials used in steel production.&nbsp;<h4>Importance of XRF and OES in steel manufacturing</h4>XRF allows for rapid, non-destructive analysis, providing precise measurements of elemental composition. This is important because maintaining high-quality standards in steel production requires accurate knowledge of the materials being used. Using devices like<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1978"> XRF spectrometers</a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1992">handheld XRF analyzers</a> helps enable manufacturers to quickly and accurately assess the elemental makeup of raw materials, helping to ensure that they meet the necessary specifications for producing high-quality steel. This helps prevent the inclusion of unwanted elements that could compromise the steel’s integrity and performance.&nbsp;OES offers high sensitivity for detecting trace elements, helping to ensure that even the smallest impurities are identified and managed effectively. This is crucial because trace elements, even in minute quantities, can significantly affect the properties of steel. By employing technologies like <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/industrial/spectroscopy-elemental-isotope-analysis/oes-xrd-xrf-analysis/optical-emission-spectrometry/instruments.html">optical emission spectrometers</a>, manufacturers can detect and control these impurities, helping to ensure that the final product maintains the desired properties and meets stringent quality standards. This level of sensitivity is particularly important in applications where the steel’s purity and consistency are critical, such as in construction, automotive, and aerospace industries.&nbsp;<h4>Real-time process monitoring with process analytical technology</h4>The integration of Process Analytical Technology (PAT), such as <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/industrial/cement-coal-minerals/cement-coal-minerals-learning-center/cement-analysis-production-information/pgnaa-pftna-technology/technology.html?icid=CAD_blog_metals_2025Jan">Prompt Gamma Neutron Activation Analysis</a> (PGNAA) and Pulsed Fast Thermal Neutron Activation (PFTNA), further enhances the quality control process. These technologies provide real-time, online analysis of bulk materials, enabling continuous monitoring and control of the composition of raw materials and intermediates. Real-time data is essential for making immediate adjustments to the production process, reducing waste and improving overall efficiency. An <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/order/catalog/product/CBOMNIAGILE?icid=CAD_blog_metals_2025Jan">online elemental analyzer</a> is an example of such advanced PAT technology.&nbsp;<h4>Environmental monitoring and worker safety</h4>Environmental monitoring technologies help ensure that steel manufacturing processes do not negatively impact the surrounding environment. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/industrial/manufacturing-processing/steel-manufacturing/solutions.html?icid=CAD_blog_metals_2025Jan#regulatory-compliance">Air quality monitoring systems</a> track emissions of pollutants such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, helping to ensure compliance with environmental regulations. Additionally, radiation detection systems like <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/industrial/radiation-detection-measurement/instruments.html?icid=CAD_blog_metals_2025Jan#handheld-instruments">personal radiation detectors</a> help prevent contaminated scrap metal from entering the production process, safeguarding both the quality of the steel and the health of workers.&nbsp;<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Advancing_Clean_Steel_Manufacturing_with_Modern_Technologies_231e8f92fb.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: Advancing Clean Steel Manufacturing with Modern Technologies" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Advancing_Clean_Steel_Manufacturing_with_Modern_Technologies_231e8f92fb.jpg 235w," sizes="100vw" width="2121" height="1414"><h4>Enhancing sustainability with efficient scrap analysis</h4>Material verification and scrap analysis are also critical in modern steel manufacturing. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1996">Handheld XRF analyzers</a> can provide rapid and accurate identification of metal alloys, which is essential for sorting and recycling scrap metal. This supports the use of recycled materials in steel production and helps ensure that the final product meets high-quality standards. Efficient recycling of scrap metal contributes to the sustainability of steel manufacturing.&nbsp;<h4>Precision in rolling processes</h4>In the hot and cold rolling processes, precise <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/industrial/manufacturing-processing/steel-manufacturing/technologies.html?icid=CAD_blog_metals_2025Jan#thickness-and-coating-measurement">gauging systems</a> help ensure that the steel produced meets exact specifications for thickness, width, hardness, and strength. These systems use advanced sensors and control mechanisms to continuously monitor and adjust the rolling process, helping to minimize defects and reduce scrap. This level of precision is essential for producing high-quality steel products while maximizing mill yield.&nbsp;<h4>Supporting low carbon steel production</h4>The push towards low carbon steel production is critical in the fight against climate change. Advanced technologies play a significant role in this transition. By optimizing raw material usage and improving process efficiency, technologies such as XRF, OES, and PAT can help reduce the overall carbon footprint of steel production. Real-time monitoring allows for immediate adjustments that enhance process efficiency and reduce waste.&nbsp;Recycling is another key component of low carbon steel production. Efficient <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/industrial/manufacturing-processing/steel-manufacturing/solutions.html?icid=CAD_blog_metals_2025Jan#scrap-processing">scrap analysis</a> and material verification technologies help enable the use of recycled materials, reducing the need for virgin raw materials and the associated environmental impact. These technologies help ensure that recycled steel meets high-quality standards, making it a viable option for sustainable steel production.&nbsp;<h4>Summary</h4>Overall, advanced technologies can provide comprehensive support for clean and low carbon steel manufacturing. From elemental analysis and real-time process monitoring to rigorous environmental monitoring, these technologies collectively can enhance the quality, efficiency, and sustainability of steel production. By adopting these advanced solutions, steel manufacturers have the opportunity to meet the growing demand for high-quality, clean steel and contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly industry.&nbsp;

Advancing Clean Steel Manufacturing with Modern Technologies

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 1st June 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 technical note by Agilent Technologies, application note by Shimadzu and other document by Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: Improving Resolution of Single Nanoparticles Using ICP-MS and Shorter Dwell Times</h3>Advantages of a 50 µs dwell time on a single nanoparticle’s signal profile&nbsp;<ul><li>Technical note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/te_single_nanoparticle_9500_icp_qqq_5994_9127en_agilent_e47e21c8b4.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Single nanoparticles (sNPs) are defined as particles with diameters below 100&nbsp;nm. Owing to their distinct physical and chemical properties, engineered nanoparticles are incorporated into a wide range of products to enhance performance or functionality. At the same time, they are increasingly recognized as potential contaminants or pollutants. In the semiconductor industry, for example, even single-digit nanometer-sized sNPs present in process chemicals can cause electrical shorting to occur and reduce product yield. Although the effects of sNPs on environmental and biological systems are still being investigated, researchers have developed methods to determine sNPs using single particle-ICP-MS (spICP-MS).1 Agilent ICP-MS instruments are widely used to characterize sNPs because of their fast-scanning multi-element capability, ultra-high sensitivity, low background, and integrated data analysis software.2-5sNPs are decomposed, atomized, and ionized in the high-energy ICP. Any ions that are generated from a particle enter the vacuum chamber as ion clusters and are then detected as transient signal peaks above the background signal. The signal from each sNP event usually lasts between 400 and 1,300 µs. To detect this short-lived signal with high resolution, a fast time-resolved analysis (fast-TRA) acquisition is employed. Typically, a default dwell time of 100 µs is used. However, if higher peak resolution is required, the Agilent 9500 Triple Quadrupole ICP-MS (ICP-QQQ) can be operated with a dwell time as low as 50 µs. During the development of the 9500 ICP-QQQ, improvements to the instrument’s hardware enabled reliable control of TRA at much shorter timing intervals. These enhancements enable the 9500 to operate with high stability at a 50&nbsp;µs dwell time, making it an effective instrument for high-resolution sNP analysis. The robust plasma of Agilent ICP-MS instruments, as indicated by a CeO+ /Ce+ ratio &lt; 1%, also reduces matrix effects between standards and samples.&nbsp;In this study, we conducted a fundamental evaluation of sNP analysis using a dwell time of 50 µs. Gold (Au), silica (SiO2 ), and platinum (Pt) nanoparticles were analyzed by the 9500 ICP-QQQ, and the results were compared with those obtained with a 100 µs dwell time.<h4>Experimental&nbsp;</h4><h5>Instrumentation&nbsp;</h5>The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=+9500+ICP-QQQ">Agilent 9500 ICP-QQQ</a> used the standard configuration (Ni cones and u-lens), except for the torch. A quartz torch with a 1.5 mm inner diameter (id) injector was used to minimize diffusion of ion clusters in the ICP and obtain sharper, better-resolved peaks.&nbsp;Multi-element NP data acquisition and analysis were carried out using the Rapid Multi-Element Nanoparticle Analysis mode of the optional Single Nanoparticle Application Module for the Agilent OpenLab ICP-MS software. In Rapid MultiElement Nanoparticle Analysis mode, multi-element data are collected sequentially from a single sample acquisition, and all data are combined into a single file. This method saves time, as only one sample uptake and rinse are needed for all analytes. Data quality is likely enhanced, since the risk of sample contamination is considerably lower with a single analysis than with multiple separate analyses.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>For high-resolution nanoparticle analysis, the Agilent 9500 ICP-QQQ can be operated in single-particle mode with a 50 µs dwell time, as well as the default 100&nbsp;µs setting. The reduction of dwell time is enabled by advancements in both hardware and software that work together to support higher-resolution single-nanoparticle measurements.&nbsp;Improved peak resolution was demonstrated for Au, SiO2 , and Pt nanoparticles, while maintaining equivalent performance to the standard 100&nbsp;µs dwell time setting. The mean particle sizes obtained at 50&nbsp;µs for the nanoparticle suspensions were within the manufacturer’s certified ranges. Likewise, the particle size distributions measured at both 50 and 100&nbsp;µs closely matched the distributions provided by the manufacturer.&nbsp;In addition to improved peak resolution, a shorter dwell time reduces the likelihood of multiple particles being detected within a single dwell period, potentially improving data accuracy.&nbsp;Since the total data volume increases inversely with dwell time, a 50 µs dwell time generates more data points per unit time. To reduce processing time when handling large datasets, Agilent ICP-MS software (both ICP-MS MassHunter and OpenLab ICP-MS) uses multithreaded CPU‑based computation for sNP data analysis, maintaining efficient data management.Although 50&nbsp;µs may not be necessary for many sNP analyses, having the option to use this shorter dwell time provides greater flexibility. For example, it could enable samples with unexpectedly high particle counts to be analyzed without needing additional dilution.<h3>2. Shimadzu: 3D-DIC Analysis in Compression Test of Glass Tube</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_01052_en_fd73dc76a6.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h4>User Benefits</h4><ul><li>The HPV-X3 high-speed video camera has resolution three times higher than the conventional device, resulting in improved analysis performance in DIC analyses.</li><li>The HPV-X3 high-speed video camera allows recording at a maximum framerate of 20 Mfps, two times faster than the conventional device.</li><li>Three-dimensional displacement measurement is possible by synchronous recording using two HPV-X3 high-speed video cameras and 3D-DIC analysis.</li></ul>Glass is used in various industries, such as electronic devices and automobiles. Depending on the intended application, mechanical properties are measured by material testing, but to achieve further improvements in performance, it is necessary to observe the origin of fracture and the condition of crack propagation. However, glass displays brittle fracture behavior, which is difficult to observe visually. In our previous reports, we observed the fracture behavior of glass specimens in ring-on-ring tests 1, 2, and those observation results indicated that a high-speed video camera with a recording speed (framerate) of several Mfps or higher is required to observe the fracture behavior of glass. In this experiment, the fracture behavior of a glass tube during a compression test was observed with an HPV-X3 high-speed video camera. In addition, synchronous videorecording was carried out using two HPV-X3 cameras, and the strain distribution during fracture was visualized by a 3D-DIC (three-dimensional digital correlation) analysis.<h4>Specimen Information and Measurement System</h4>The glass tube used as the specimen was compressed in the axial direction using an AGX-V2 precision universal testing machine. Table 1 and Table 2 show the equipment configuration and the specimen dimensions, respectively. In this article, fracture observation in the compression test and visualization of the strain distribution by 3D-DIC analysis were carried out. Fig. 1 shows the condition of the test for the 3D-DIC analysis. When an observation target such as a glass tube has a curved shape, a 3- dimensional strain analysis is necessary. Therefore, synchronous recording from two directions was conducted using two<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=+HPV-X3"> HPV-X3</a> high-speed video cameras, with a random pattern drawn on the specimen surface, as shown in Fig. 2. Table 3 shows the recording conditions.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>The fracture of a glass tube during a compression test was observed using two HPV-X3 high-speed video cameras, and a 3D-DIC analysis was carried out. In fracture observation, the crack that became the origin of fracture could be identified, and the condition of crack propagation was clearly captured. In the 3D-DIC analysis, it was possible to observe the concentration of strain in front of the crack and the decrease in strain after crack propagation. Since glass fracture is brittle and is extremely rapid, a high-speed video camera with a recording speed of 5 Mfps or higher, such as the HPV-X3, is an effective instrument for fracture observation.<h3>3. Thermo Fisher Scientific: How can you maximize productivity in lightweight metal scrap sorting?</h3><ul><li>Other document</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/maximize_productivity_in_lightweight_metal_scrap_sorting_sn1546_en_2cca0f44fe.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Handheld XRF (HHXRF) has long been an important tool for sorting scrap metals. While handheld XRF can identify most grades of stainless steel, as well as titanium, nickel, cobalt, and copper alloys within 1 to 2 seconds, sorting aluminum alloys can take significantly longer. This is especially true if those alloys cannot be specifically identified by the content of their transition metals, such as manganese, copper zinc, nickel, iron chromium or titanium. The separation of grades within the AA 1000, AA 5000 and AA 6000 series, as well as casting alloy family grade separation, requires the measurement of light elements such as magnesium or silicon. Those elements are generally measured using an X-ray beam with a lower voltage, which results in longer measurements of typically 10&nbsp;seconds or more. About a decade ago, handheld laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) emerged as an alternative for sorting aluminum and magnesium alloy grades within a few seconds. These include the smaller spot size and fluctuations related to the transient nature of the laser-induced plasma. Compared to a wider, continuous beam of X-rays, LIBS analysis is intrinsically more sensitive to surface roughness and surface contamination, and thus less precise than HHXRF.&nbsp;More recently, the Light Metal Quick Sort (LMQS) mode available on the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1992">Thermo Scientific™ Niton™ XL5 series of handheld XRF analyzers </a>uses a different logic than conventional HHXRF instruments. Provided with a 5W (up to 500µA) tube and a stateof-the-art silicon drift detector (SDD) with a graphene window, the analyzer starts measuring, at low voltage, elements from magnesium to zinc. This enables identification of most aluminum and magnesium alloy grades within one to three seconds, as well as the identification of other families of alloys. Longer measurements can be set for the few aluminum alloy grades that are identified based on zirconium, tin, lead, or bismuth contents.

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 23, 2026

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezICPMS Library in the week of 8th June 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, Shimadzu and Thermo Fisher Scientific!<h3>1. Agilent Technologies: Fast and Reliable Analysis of Soil and Sediments using ICP-MS with an Innovative Cell</h3>High-throughput and low detection limits with the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=9500">Agilent 9500 ICP-QQQ</a> and a Dual-Cell System&nbsp;<ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_soil_sediment_9500_icp_qqq_5994_9128en_agilent_affabfb736.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Ever since ICP-MS instruments were first commercialized, their high sensitivity and multi-elemental capabilities have made them a suitable technique for quantifying trace elements in soil and sediment, particularly in support of environmental monitoring and regulatory compliance. To help laboratories transition to ICP-MS for these important environmental applications, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) first introduced the performance-based test Method 6020 in 2007, and revised it as Method 6020B in 2014.1 Method 6020B remains widely used worldwide for the quantitative measurement of a broad range of elements, including arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), selenium (Se), and lead (Pb), in solid and aqueous wastes by ICP-MS.&nbsp;Traditionally, single-quadrupole ICP-MS (SQ ICP-MS) instruments equipped with collision/reaction cells (CRCs) have been used to meet the requirements of Method 6020B for sample analysis. Laboratories have typically used a combination of acquisition strategies to control interferences, including no gas mode for interference-free analytes and low mass analytes, helium (He) collision mode for analytes affected by polyatomic ion interferences, and half-mass mode to correct doubly charged ion (M2+) interferences. This multi-mode approach has enabled laboratories to meet Method 6020B performance and quality control (QC) criteria over many years.&nbsp;Now, for the first time, the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=9500">Agilent 9500 Triple Quadrupole ICP-MS</a> featuring the Dual-Cell System (DCS) cell introduces two innovative cell gas modes, Advanced Helium Mode (AHM) and Air cell mode.2,3 These modes simplify interference removal approaches, enhance analytical performance, and accelerate analysis timesIn this study, a range of environmentally certified reference materials (CRMs) was selected to represent sample types routinely analyzed in high-throughput environmental testing laboratories. As these laboratories prioritize productivity across all aspects of their operations to remain competitive, the 9500 ICP-QQQ configuration and analytical method were optimized to maximize sample throughput. The performance of the method was evaluated according to criteria set out in Method 6020B.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>The study has shown that the Agilent 9500 ICP-QQQ, equipped with the unique Dual-Cell System (DCS) and the optional AVS&nbsp;MS discrete sampling system, is ideal for high-throughput, multi-element analysis of soil and sediment samples.&nbsp;The use of the EPA 6020B Preset Method and selection of UHMI-4 plasma conditions in the Agilent OpenLab ICP-MS software enabled rapid setup of the instrument’s operating parameters, ensuring consistent performance across operators.&nbsp;The instrument’s matrix-tolerant plasma (low CeO/Ce ratio), UHMI, and DCS effectively addressed the challenges of analyzing high-matrix samples, including signal drift, ion suppression, and spectral interferences, thereby delivering an optimized analytical workflow.&nbsp;The method’s productivity was enhanced by operating the DCS in Advanced Helium Mode (AHM) and Air cell mode and by using short integration times, saving 5 to 10 s per sample. AHM replaces conventional no gas, helium (He) collision, and high energy He (HEHe) in a single mode, while Air cell mode uses oxygen from the laboratory, alleviating the need for gas cylinders. The 9500 maintains exceptionally high sensitivity in AHM and Air cell mode, minimizing background signals.&nbsp;Overall, the 9500 ICP-QQQ with DCS achieved excellent analytical data:&nbsp;<ul><li>Low detection limits in the low ng/L (ppt) range for most analytes.&nbsp;</li><li>Removal of M2+ interferences on Ca, As, and Se generated by Sr and rare earth elements (REEs) in the soil samples using Air cell mode.&nbsp;</li><li>Recoveries of all certified elements in the five environmental CRMs or matrix spike samples within 100 ± 10%, confirming the effective control of interferences using AHM and Air cell mode.&nbsp;</li><li>Method robustness and reproducibility over more than eight hours of continuous measurements, as demonstrated by the recoveries of ISTDs and CCVs within the limits specified in EPA Method 6020.&nbsp;</li></ul>The 9500 ICP-QQQ with DCS and an integrated AVS MS enables high-throughput, routine analysis of complex environmental matrices. The EPA Method 6020-compliant method provided accurate data by effectively handling polyatomic ion and M2+ interferences using AHM and Air cell mode.<h3>2. Shimadzu: Strength Testing of Lithium-Ion Battery Materials Using a Continuous-Testing Micro-Compression Testing Machine</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_01168_en_d2eb3ddbcb.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h4>User Benefits</h4><ul><li>The tests are automated, which significantly reduces the time required of the operators.</li><li>Up to 100 continuous tests can be performed.</li><li>Particle size measurement is performed by software, which reduces differences in measurement between operators</li></ul>Lithium-ion batteries have become an indispensable energy source in a wide range of fields, from everyday items like smartphones and laptops to electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems. The batteries consist of a positive electrode, a negative electrode, an electrolyte, and a separator. Positive electrodes use transition metal oxides (e.g., lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide [NMC]) or lithium iron phosphate (LFP) to transfer lithium, and negative electrodes generally use graphite and, recently, high-capacity materials, such as silicon. One of the issues with lithium-ion batteries is that the positive and negative electrodes are prone to cracking. This is caused by the high pressures during manufacturing, as well as during charging and discharging. This is also thought to affect their performance, such as the cycle properties. Therefore, research is being conducted on the relationship between mechanical properties and the electrochemical performance. 1), 2) This Application News presents compression tests on various battery materials as examples of quantitative evaluations of their mechanical properties. The MCT series of microcompression testing machines can perform compression testing of minute single particles. In addition, the MCT-AD model can automatically perform extraction of measurement particles, length measurements, and test operations. This results in significant time savings and enables evaluations with a larger number of measurements.<h4>MCT-AD Micro Compression Testing Machine&nbsp;</h4>Fig. 1 shows the MCT-AD and the measurement principle. The MCT compressed single particles placed on a lower compression plate using a flat indenter. Then, using data on diameters of the particles obtained in advance, a test forcedisplacement graph was created that measured various types of strength of the particles. The MCT-AD automatically performs selection of the measurement particles, length measurements, and cleaning of the indenter, which in the past had to be performed manually by the operator after each measurement. This enables continuous testing up to 100 times while consolidating the operation time by the operator and reducing labor.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>This Application News presents a mechanical evaluation by the MCT-AD of materials used in the electrodes of lithium-ion batteries. Traditionally, this measurement process imposes a heavy workload on operators. But since the MCT-AD automatically performs extraction of measurement particles, length measurements, and test operations, there are significant labor savings, and the need for highly skilled operators is also eliminated. The MCT-AD can also handle compression testing of samples with minute particle shapes, not just battery materials, so it is useful not only for product development but also for quality control.<h3>3. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Real-time zinc-nickel coating measurements.</h3><h4>Thickness and composition analysis using the Niton XL5 Plus Handheld XRF Analyzer</h4><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an1685_en_12_2025_2911000_31d7d7fbe6.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Zinc-nickel (Zn-Ni) coatings are the result of an electroplating process that deposits a layer of zinc-nickel alloy onto the surface of a metal substrate, typically steel. Zn-Ni coatings offer superior corrosion resistance compared to pure zinc coatings and often replace cadmium coatings, as they provide comparable or better properties while complying with regulations such as REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals) and RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances). Commonly used in the automotive, aerospace, and electronics industries, Zn-Ni coatings are often applied to fasteners, connectors, and structural parts exposed to corrosive environments.&nbsp;Zn-Ni coatings typically consist of 85-93% zinc (Zn) and 7-15% nickel (Ni). The exact composition may vary depending on the application’s specific requirements. The coating process involves electroplating, which consists of immersing the metal substrate in an electrolyte solution containing zinc and nickel ions. An electric current is then passed through the solution, causing the zinc-nickel alloy to deposit onto the substrate. To ensure that specifications for coated parts are met, metal finishing companies must verify both the coating thickness and composition.<h4>Instrumentation&nbsp;</h4>X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF) is the technology of choice for quality control of Zn-Ni plating, as it is the only analytical method that can determine the thickness and composition of the coating layer non-destructively. The use of handheld X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (HHXRF) instruments enables near-line analyses of finished products, which can be analyzed directly without being cut and brought to a separate chamber with benchtop instruments.&nbsp;In previous work [1], the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1992">Thermo Scientific™ Niton™ XL5 Plus Handheld XRF Analyzer </a>was demonstrated to be capable of measuring the coating weight or coating thickness of up to 4 layers of metal coatings on a substrate, using a proprietary standardless “fundamental parameters” algorithm. The layers and the substrate can be pure elements or alloys. Although the fundamental parameters algorithm can determine the thickness of Zn-Ni plating standardless, it delivers partial information, as the composition of the layer is not measured. To measure the composition and the thickness of the coatings simultaneously, another approach using empirical calibration can be deployed. The Niton XL5 Plus User Mode enables the operators to create their own calibration curves based on the measurements carried out on reference materials of Zn-Ni plated samples with known coating thickness and composition.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>Performing quality control of Zn-Ni coatings is essential for metal finishers to ensure the corrosion resistance of critical parts used in the automotive and aerospace industries. The Niton XL5 Plus analyzer calibrated with user mode for this application has demonstrated its ability to deliver accurate results and numerous benefits to the metal finishing industry, including but not limited to these:&nbsp;<ul><li>Increased productivity thanks to real-time, near-line results for faster process control and reduced rework.&nbsp;</li><li>Preservation of high-value parts due to non-destructive testing that requires no cutting or damage.&nbsp;</li><li>A lower operational burden with easy deployment and low total cost of ownership.</li></ul>

News from LabRulezICPMS Library - Week 24, 2026

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Advances in Chromatography and Electrophoresis & Chiranal 2026

68th International Conference on Analytical Sciences and Spectroscopy (ICASS)

12th Nordic Conference on Plasma Spectrochemistry and Ionization Principles in Mass Spectrometry

Driving higher throughput through innovative QQQ ICP‑MS techniques

SpinPilot – The Future of NMR Automation

Innovations and Emerging Tools in Peptide Science